In the world today, it’s common to find entire industries wiped out by technological advance. For example, in the graphic arts and publishing worlds, nearly everything is different than it was ten or 20 years ago. But dry transfer decals are a notable exception and not only are they unchanged, but in ever wider use. You might see one as a museum label one day and one as a logo on an expensive wine bottle the next day. Their consistent (and impeccable) quality is one of the reasons for their continuing success. For ease of application and an impeccable appearance, they can’t be beaten for many and varied uses.
Except for perhaps backing the decals with more sophisticated adhesives, the only recent change is the use of digital files in their design. When something stands the test of time in a world nearly completely upended by technology, it says a lot about its quality and ease of use. Industrial designers were among the first to champion the use of custom dry transfers, most often for lettering and detailing on product prototypes. Later when desktop publishing drove rub-on Letraset lettering to become a digital product, transfer decals became the logical and higher quality replacement. They look great and go on easily.
If you’ve never rubbed on a custom dry transfer, you’ll be amazed by how easy it is the first time you try one. One of the great advantages is dry application that’s one of their significant advantages over other methods like water-slide decals or stick-on vinyl lettering. Many people are surprised to find out the adhesive is already on and ready to go when you receive them. It saves time and mess during the application and also means less chance of damaging the wall or other surface where they are applied. You can use rub-on decals on any dry smooth surface including walls, wood, plastic, glass, and metal.
Art galleries and museums increasingly prefer dry transfer decals for their wall captions because of the crisp, clear appearance and easy readability. No other method can match the clarity so the easiest to use product is also the best looking. How often does that happen? If you’re working with a demanding or temperamental artist, small details can mean a lot and getting it right with the captions can add to your credibility. Clients will also respond well when they can easily read more about the works on display. Experienced gallerists know sometimes small details can spark a significant sale.
