Waterslide Decal Directions

Every waterslide decal is printed to order on my laser printer using premium Hayes laser waterslide paper, so you get bright, crisp, professional results, with no sealing needed before soaking. Step-by-step written directions come with every order, and here's how Bobcat does it from start to finish!

How Bobcat makes and applies waterslide decals, 9 step directions: design, print on laser waterslide paper, let it dry, trim, soak in water, slide and position, smooth it out, let it dry, seal and enjoy

What I Do (Steps 1-3)

  1. Design Time! I create your cute designs with love.
  2. Print your design on premium laser waterslide paper. No sealing needed!
  3. Let it dry for a few minutes, then it's packed up and shipped to you.

What You Do (Steps 4-9)

Before you start, clean your mug or tumbler with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely so the decal sticks well.

  1. Trim your decal. Cut out the design you need, trimming close to the edge.
  2. Soak in water. Place the cut decal in room-temperature water for 20-30 seconds, until it slides freely on the backing paper.
  3. Slide & position. Slide the decal off the paper and onto your mug or tumbler, then gently move it where you want it.
  4. Smooth it out. Use a soft squeegee, brush, or your finger to push out bubbles and excess water, working from the center out.
  5. Let it dry completely for at least 12-24 hours.
  6. Seal & enjoy! Seal with epoxy or resin for a durable, glossy, long-lasting finish.

Want to Print Your Own?

If you print your own decals (like our digital decal sheets), you need waterslide paper that matches your printer:

  • Color laser printer: use laser waterslide paper. No sealing needed before soaking, just like the decals I make.
  • Inkjet printer: use inkjet waterslide paper, and seal your printed design with a few light coats of clear acrylic spray sealer before soaking, or the ink will run. See the full laser vs. inkjet guide.

My favorite sealers for inkjet prints:

Spray 2-3 light coats and let each one dry. More sealing tips here.

Hayes makes both kinds, and it's the paper I trust for every order. Shop Hayes Paper and use code SCINOT for 15% off your order!

More Help

Check out our Waterslide Tips & Tricks or the Hayes Paper laser waterslide instructions. Still have questions? Please reach out. We want you to love every order!

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