Sticker science
Mix and match
The choice of materials and print technology follows a process of trial and error, of mix and match. I never accepted a printer who is indifferent about quality variations. I never accepted the quick-fix nature of the printing business. I searched for a place where the pressures of time, size and technological advances would not limit my attention to detail. I was lucky to find a printing partner able to accommodate to the particular requirements of the Shufflesome concept.
The materials used to produce Shufflesome stickers are thin, flexible, yet durable. The photos provided at shufflesome.com should help you to gauge the sticker's performance and the quality of print.
Haptic, look & feel
The vinyl is coated with a high-gloss overlaminating film that makes the stickers resistant to abrasion. The type of film used is among the thinest available. At approximately 0.1 mm, the stickers are very thin.
Exterior performance
The cast vinyl is made for use in outdoor environments. Temperature variations between -50°C and +90°C won't affect it. Regarding humidity, the vinyl is very resistant to the effects of water or saltspray.
Durability
7 years (at least). Wear and tear will obviously reduce the life span.
Vinyl colors
Most artwork is printed on white vinyl. Black edition stickers and Super edition stickers are made of transparent vinyl.
No air bubbles
The tendency for air bubbles to form between surface and sticker has led manufacturers to develop adhesive films that let the air escape. We use such a film, thus ensuring a snug fit and a plain surface.
Application of decals
A degree in advanced surface technologies is not required. Everybody can apply a sticker. There are just a few details to take into account, and you'll enjoy the design on your iPod.
Removal
Rest assured, removal is easy. Warm the stickers with your hands or a hair dryer (at an elevated temperature, the sticker is more flexible), then lift one edge (use a sharp knife) and peel the sticker off from there, slowly. No adhesive residue remains. Do not tear or pull with force.
Reusability
The stickers are not made to be reusable. After you have applied them for the first time, you can carefully remove and reapply the sticker within the first few hours. After several days and weeks though, it will no longer be easy to remove the sticker without deforming it.