DRY TRANSFER LETTERS Frequently Asked Questions

Can dry transfer letters only be used to produce letters?

No, dry transfers can be used to produce lettering, as well as any spot color graphics.

How do you install dry transfer letters, and do you need any special tools?

Dry transfers letters adhere to the surface you’re installing on via a pressure sensitive adhesive. Secure your transfer in place using tape, and then rub over top of the graphic using a blunt tool.

Burnishing tools and bone tools work well for application, but any hard, blunt object can work.

Do you stock any letters / fonts?

No, we don’t stock any fonts, letters, graphics, etc. Everything is custom made to order in the USA.

What materials can dry transfers be applied to?

Dry transfer letters apply best to smooth, rigid surfaces. They can be applied to surfaces with light texturing, but it takes extra care during the application. They will not apply well to any rough, or highly flexible surface.

How long do dry transfer letters typically last before they start to degrade or peel off?

Unused dry transfers typically have a shelf life of about 6 months to 1 year before the adhesive starts to degrade. After that timeframe, they’re generally still usable, but it might take extra effort in the application.

Once applied, dry transfers can last years without issue. After application, a spray on clear coat can be used to further protect the transfer and increase lifespan.

Can dry transfers be removed if needed?

Dry transfers can be removed a couple of different ways depending on how well they’re adhered. They can be peeled up by placing an aggressive tape over top of the transfer. Acetone can also be used to remove them. If neither of those options work, you can sand / paint over top of them.

What is the minimum & Maximum size that can be produced?

We produce these in predetermined sheet sizes ranging from 8.5” x 11” up to 18” x 24”. As long as it fits on a sheet, it can be produced. Multiple smaller graphics can be grouped together on a single sheet as well.

How detailed or intricate can the design of custom dry transfer letters be?

Dry transfers letter graphics and designs can be incredibly detailed and intricate. The biggest limiting factor is line weight. In order to ensure that a line will come out on the final transfer, we recommend a line weight of at least 1pt. Lines below that threshold may start to break, or just not reproduce.

Can dry transfer letters be produced in any color, including metallic or fluorescent colors?

Yes, dry transfer letters can be produced in metallics, fluorescents, and other spot colors. We work primarily from the Pantone Solid Coated color book. If the color you need is not in that book, let us know what you’re looking for, and we can probably still produce it.

Is it possible to create dry transfer letters with multiple colors in a single design? What about gradients?

It is possible to have multiple colors in a single design. The absolute maximum is six spot colors.

Gradients, photos, etc. are not possible with this process, and cannot be reproduced.

What is the turnaround time for producing custom dry transfers letters?

Most orders are completed and shipped out within 3-5 business days. If you have a deadline that’s sooner than that, please reach out to us directly, and we’ll see if we can accommodate an expedited order.

Can dry transfer letters be made to withstand various weather conditions or chemicals?

Dry transfers are going to work best in an indoor climate controlled environment. A clear coat can be used to add an extra layer of protection, but best results are going to be indoors and away from the elements.

Is there a minimum order quantity for custom dry transfer letters?

The minimum order quantity is one sheet. The smallest sheet size being 8.5” x 11”.

What file formats are acceptable for submitting designs for custom dry transfer letters?

Vector files work best, so Adobe Illustrator and PDF files are preferred. PSD, PNG, and JPG files can also work as long as the resolution is 600dpi or greater. If you have any questions about your artwork, you can send us your file directly for review before placing an order.

How much do custom dry transfer letters cost, and what factors influence the price?

The cost of dry transfer letters vary. The main factors influencing the cost are the sheet size being produced and the total number of colors. An 8.5” x 11” sheet in black or white is going to be the least expensive to produce. As sheet size increases, or colors are added the cost also increases.

Are samples or proofs provided before the order is produced.

Generally, we don’t provide a proof or samples before going into production on an order. However, if we see any issues with artwork or file setup we will reach out for clarification before going to production.

What shipping options are available, and how are dry transfer letters packaged?

All orders are produced and shipped out of Los Angeles, CA. Orders within the US are shipped out via Fedex 2-Day. Orders going to Canada are shipped out via Fedex / UPS ground. If you’d like to place an order and you’re outside of the US / Canada please reach out before placing an order. We’d be happy to assist you, but there will likely be additional shipping costs.

All orders are packaged and shipped in a sturdy cardboard box to prevent damage during shipment.