How to Apply Cornhole Board Decals

I am paranoid of dust during my applications because I still apply in the same shop and area in the shop that I cut and sand in. Lots of guys do this in open areas…to avoid fumes and let dust go to the wind. I love my shop ac and low humidity for work and finishing.

The guidelines I use before decal application: (hopefully, you find a nugget or two here you can use)

1. Ensure that no light sanding has occurred in the room in 2-3 hours
   • No heavy sanding in 6-8 hours and my air filtration has been running to remove dust from the air.
   • I do the same before I apply poly especially the last coat
2. Vacuum the the work bench and board tops where decal application will occur to remove any dust.
3. Using a lightly damp clean paper towel I wipe down board tops to pull away any remaining dust.
   • I apply poly to my tops (2 coats) – this is a personal preference…to protect boards and decals really stick
   • I don’t use tack cloths because of the residue left behind, again personal preference
4. Between use, I store all decal application tools so dust doesn’t get on them (closed top box or drawer is best)
5. Using low pressure air I blow my felt squeegee out before decal application.
6. Decals are stored away from sanding and cutting area in a climate controlled room to keep them clean
7. I move decals to my clean shop application area just a few minutes before the decals will be applied to prevent possible contamination
8. Before applying any firm pressure using squeegee I always wipe decals with microfiber cloth to remove any possible dust.
9. Dust of all kinds is everywhere, static from the decals is like a magnet for dust. The better care you use means less chance for dust to get under your decals or on top to scratch the surface during the squeegee process.