DIY "Dazzle" Pattern Logo for Vehicle.

Intro: DIY "Dazzle" Pattern Logo for Vehicle.

This instructable will teach you the basic steps and overview to designing, constructing, and implementing your own vinyl logos to put on your vehicles, boat, or other mode of transportation. 

STEP 1: Get Inspired!

For this particular project, I sourced the internet for "Dazzle" camo themed patterns that I could work on. "Dazzle" style camouflage has its roots from WWI and was specific for boats. It's purpose was to use sharp, irregularly spaced angles to break up the silhouette of the vehicle. I though it would fall in line for my particular vehicle since it had minimal rounded edges and seemed to be on par with the central theme. 

I found this picture which served as my inspiration. 

STEP 2: Replicate the Design.

Since this particular photo was at an angle and I had to scale it down due to the medium I was using to transfer, I opted instead to recreate it. I used Corel Draw 5X, which allowed me to work the vectors lines as needed and ad scalability. 

For sizing purpose, I set the grid at 2:1 and uploaded a high resolution side photo of a Chevrolet Cruze. I resized the photo of the Cruze at 28 inches, which gave a scale of 54 real world inches, which is the measured height of the Cruze from the GM website. Overlaying my pattern on the scaled photo allowed me to adjust the size as needed and allow for the split in the logo for the door. 

STEP 3: Transfer to a Real World Medium.

My logo was going to be in three colors utilizing a vinyl cutter. By assigning separate colors to each block series, the cutter software was able to separate them individually and allow you to get the design. I used three separate cuts of vinyl and  overlaid them onto the contact paper. 

STEP 4: Apply!

When applying the vinyl, especially one of this magnitude it helps to have extra hands or a few friends. If you have neither, then I would recommend delaying this project until you get that issue sorted out.. 

It also helps to use a fluid called Rapid-Tac which greatly assists in the application of the vinyl. It minimizes air pockets and allows you to move the decal around to position it properly before allowing it to dry. 

The decal was applied as a three part application, with the logo being built up after every subsequent application. 

STEP 5: Show It Off!

Roll down to the Local Starbucks and show that junk off!

STEP 6: All This Was Done at Tech Shop San Jose!

http://www.techshop.ws/

Comments

[jtmcdole]

Nice!

[cinpro]

there is an easier way to apply your graphics. I have used a small spray bottle (think pump hair spray style) with water and a little baby shampoo in it. Not much, just enough so you can slip the decal. I also noticed you have registration marks on the first decal where you were separating it on the table. If you put the same marks on the other colors then you can line them all up on the work table, and apply it as one piece on the car. Since this was all done in the computer anyway, might as well take advantage of some extras. I forgot the name of the stuff, but there is a backing paper/tape that is very low tack. once you have all the colors assembled on one sheet, you put this on top of the whole thing. its about 6" wide on average, so more than one pass will be needed. when you are ready to put the decal on, spray the area with the mixture and simply lay the decal upside down, peel off a small section from the sticky side and line it up how you want it on the car. ( like to start either from one known side or the top) once its good, peel the rest off. you can use a squeegee like used for window tint and rub any bubble out (the backing tape is still on at this point) when you happy that you have hit all of it, peel the backing tape off. presto, chango, dazzel!

[onemoroni1]

This is a cool way to really personalize your car.

[cbryan12]

What number did you use for the GM serial number? I really like how this all came out!

[vazquezl31]

Thanks! I used the last 6 digits of the VIN #.