Nowadays, there are many different materials that can be used both in interior decoration and for decorating various objects. These include the thermal adhesive film. This article will tell you how to use it correctly.
Where hot melt film is used
Hot-melt film is also called self-adhesive. The thing is that on its reverse side a special adhesive composition is applied, which makes it possible for it to stick to various surfaces. The peculiarity of the film is that, under the influence of high temperature, it perfectly covers all the irregularities and corners of the object on which it is applied.
This material has found wide application in various fields. Prints for T-shirts and other clothes are made from it. Self-adhesive film is used as covers for textbooks. There are also materials that are glued to furniture. Usually such a film is sold in rolls in hardware stores.
Another useful quality is the water resistance that the film exhibitshot-melt adhesive. Its application allows you to protect items from moisture.
Films can be of different colors and thicknesses. In order not to make a mistake with the choice, you should find out the characteristics of various types of material or consult with the seller.
What you need to work with film
So, you already have a hot-melt film. How to use this material and what tools will you need?
In fact, there is nothing difficult in working with film. The main thing is not to rush and do everything carefully. Everyone can cope with such a task. Prepare the following items for work:
- film itself;
- pen or pencil;
- ruler;
- sharp scissors;
- stationery knife;
- soft cloth to smooth the film;
- building hair dryer.
Usually these tools are sufficient. However, sometimes you may also need wallpaper glue. It is necessary in cases where it is necessary to paste over curved surfaces.
Preparatory work
First you need to prepare the surface on which you are going to glue the film. To do this, it must be thoroughly cleaned and degreased. You can make it with dishwashing detergent.
Uneven surface is recommended to be coated with a primer. After that, it should be dried and sanded, because it is on a smooth surface that the hot-melt film is best applied. How to use it, we continue to tellstep by step further.
When sticking a film on glass or metal, they should first be moistened with a small amount of water. This will ensure that the material adheres better to the surface.
When the preparatory work is completed, you can start working with the film itself. To do this, you need to cut out fragments of the desired size from it.
Cutting film
Often a centimeter grid is applied on the back of the self-adhesive film. This is done in order to facilitate the cutting of the material. If you need a rectangular piece of film, just mark the size on the back. Be sure to add another 2 cm on each side in reserve. Pick up scissors and cut the material along the lines located on the paper layer.
Curvilinear fragment will have to tinker longer. First you need to draw a detail on the back of the film, and only then proceed to cutting. Haste is the main enemy here, so work carefully and don't get distracted.
If the film has a pattern with repeat, cut it on the front side.
Hot-melt film: how to glue
Sticking the film is the most crucial moment in the whole work. It is advisable not to do it alone, but to ask someone to help you.
First, let's study the recommendations that explain how the hot melt film works. The instructions are usually shown on the back. It can be a step-by-step description of the job or detailed pictures.
Place a sheet of film onflat surface and turn over. We will glue the film in stages. First of all, you need to separate the material from the paper layer by about 5 cm. Then apply this edge to the surface and draw it from above with your hand. After making sure that the film is holding well, gradually remove the paper and apply the material to the entire surface.
If you remove the paper layer immediately, the film may stick together. It will no longer be possible to tear it off, and the material will be damaged.
Now you need to remove all air bubbles that have accumulated between the film and the surface. To do this, take a cloth and run it from the center to the edges. In some cases, it is possible to pierce the bubble with a needle and release the air.
It happens when the surface is uneven, but it is necessary that it is completely covered with a hot-melt adhesive film. The use of a hair dryer in this case is simply irreplaceable. Turn it on and wait for it to heat up. When hot air comes out of it, point the hair dryer at the film. Under the influence of high temperature, it will become elastic and fit all the bumps and corners.
How to care for film
Above it was told about the remarkable qualities of such material as hot-melt adhesive film. We already know how to use it. Now let's talk about how to take care of her so that she retains her original appearance for a long time.
There are no special rules for film care. It is enough to periodically wipe it with warm water and a small amount of non-aggressive detergent. Dirt stains that are difficult to remove can be removed with ethylalcohol.
Do not wipe the film with materials that can scratch it, and do not use gasoline and thinner when cleaning.
Over time, the edges of the film may begin to recede. You can glue them with simple wallpaper glue. To do this, apply a small amount of it on a thin strip of cardboard and coat the edges of the film with it. After that, smooth the surface with a cloth. For greater effect, you can wrap a solid, even object in fabric.
That's basically all you need to know about this material. Thermal adhesive film will help you to repair or update old furniture. How to use it? Yes, very simple. Try it and see for yourself.
