Vinyl will stretch more one direction than the other. It is best to have the stretch go parallel with the curve. Also a little heat will help the vinyl conform to the panel with less effort.

Try not to over stretch the vinyl as it will develop stretch marks that will not come out. Simply work the material slowly and reapply contact cement and allow it to tack up after lifting the vinyl to reposition it.

Do not give up. You learn by sticking with it and finding the limits of what you can do.

That’s what I did... trying to be thrifty and not waste material - I had this piece left over from wrapping another piece and it was just the right size. Did not even think about the direction of the stretch. Under a deadline for this one and just want to get it done. I need to slow down and pay attention. Thank you Fred, great book by the way.

It is always about the stretch when wrapping panels. If you go the wrong way it is a fight, but it still can be done.

And thank you for your kind words about the book, I hope it helps you and advances your career.

I agree with you Fred, " Do not give up " . I find the old saying , walk away and come back to it later, does actually work. You may want to try cutting the vinyl on the bias ( the same as bias binding) This will allow the the stretch of the vinyl to mold itself around the panel. Steam helps also. Apply the glue and let it set up ,steam the vinyl as you stretch around , hit it again with a light coat of glue and attach. This is what is so unique to our industry that there are various methods to complete a project.

Thanks guys, used steam and turned the vinyl the other way and I got her done!

That's great to hear!

Getting the stretch going the right way makes all the difference.

those look awesome!

I’m going to keep practicing with some spare parts. I delivered the panels today and the client was beyond tickled - although I could see room for improvement. I’m going to have more airplanes to do and I want to get better. I’ve definitely noticed you want a good quality vinyl or leather. Makes a difference.