How to Apply Your Cornhole Wraps

Installing your new cornhole wraps is quick and easy. Follow these steps for a clean, bubble-free finish that lasts.

What You'll Need

• Your cornhole wrap(s)
• A squeegee (a credit card can work)
• A heat gun or hair dryer (optional but helps the vinyl relax)
• Clean Microfiber Cloth
• Knife and/or Scissors
• Clear Coat — Water-based Polycrylic is recommended or Polyurethane
• Brush or Roller to Apply Clear Coat
• Extra Person if Possible (makes applying easier with extra hands)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Unpack Your Wraps
Remove package contents from your new wraps and place on a flat surface to help reduce the curl from shipping.

Step 2 — Prep Your Boards
Before applying your wrap, make sure your cornhole board surface is clean and ready. Wipe down the entire surface with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. If your boards are new, lightly sand any rough spots and wipe clean. If your boards have been previously used, remove any old adhesive residue and ensure the surface is smooth and dry. A clean, smooth surface is key to a long-lasting, bubble-free application. I personally like to apply a few coats of clear coat to my raw wood and let it fully cure. Then I apply my wraps. This gives me the absolute best possible surface to apply the vinyl to.

Step 3 — Position the Wrap
Place the wrap, with the printed side up, and position onto your cornhole board to the desired location.

Step 4 — Secure with Tape
Apply some tape to the middle of each of the longer side edge (2 pieces total). This secures the wrap to your boards on the sides. Then apply an additional piece of tape to the very bottom of the wrap to your boards to secure the wrap from shifting during application.

Step 5 — Remove the Paper Backing
From the unsecured end (the upper 1/2 of the wrap that is not taped down), flip it over and start removing the paper backing from the main vinyl. Cut the paper backing off that you just separated from the vinyl. This will allow you to lay that 1/2 portion of the wrap to your boards.

Step 6 — Apply with a Squeegee
Using your squeegee, LIGHTLY press the wrap down from the center outward in smooth, overlapping strokes. This helps to reduce air bubbles as you go. Slowly lowering the vinyl as you continue this repeated motion.

Step 7 — Apply the Rest of the Wrap
Remove the tape, then repeat steps 5 & 6 for the lower half of the wraps that were originally taped down.

Step 8 — Work Out Any Bubbles
If you notice small air bubbles, use the squeegee to gently push them toward the nearest edge. Sometimes, lightly pressing the air bubble with your finger works, just be sure to go slow. For stubborn bubbles, apply gentle heat with a hair dryer to soften the vinyl, then smooth it out. 

Step 9 — Apply Firm Pressure
When your wraps are fully applied, you will then need to go back and apply FIRM pressure to your wraps. This firm pressure step is very important as vinyl is pressure sensitive and activates only after pressure is applied. I like to use the scrap paper backing that was removed from the wraps as a barrier between the print and my squeegee when doing this step to help prevent any scuffs or damage to the design. A rubber roller can also be great to use if you have one on hand.

Step 10 — Trim the Edges (If Needed)
If your wrap extends slightly past the board edges, use a sharp utility knife to trim it flush. This is when you trim out the hole as well. I find that a knife with an extendable long blade works the best for trimming the hole out.

Step 11 — Heat Gun or Hair Dryer
I like to use a hair dryer for this next step. Use your hair dryer and go over the whole wrap as well as the edges. This helps the vinyl to relax and conform to the board. Be sure to constantly move the hair dryer and not let the vinyl get too hot. And do not rub the vinyl while being heated.

Step 12 — Apply Clear Coat (Optional if your wraps are laminated)
Once your wrap is fully adhered, apply your clear coat using a brush or roller. Water-based Polycrylic is recommended, but Polyurethane works as well. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the number of coats, drying time between coats, how to apply and finishing. A clear coat is highly recommended for outdoor use as it significantly extends the life of your wrap. This is optional if your wraps are laminated. But a lot of builders still like to apply so that they can make the playing surface slick. ** This step is required if your wraps are not laminated to help protect the ink print from the abuse of the bags.

Step 13 — Let It Set
Allow the wrap and clear coat to fully cure before playing. For best long-term adhesion, avoid exposure to water or heavy use within the first 24 hours or per your clear coat manufacturer's instructions.

Pro Tips

• Apply in a warm environment (65°F or above) for best adhesion. Preferably inside the house if you have the room so that dust and humidity are also controlled.
  
• Use the scrap paper backing as a barrier between your squeegee and the print when applying firm pressure — it protects the design from scuffs.
• A laminate finish adds extra durability — highly recommended for outdoor use.
• Prep your boards ahead of time while your wraps are being made & shipped.

Need Help?

Have questions about your installation? Contact us at extremesigns2@gmail.com and we'll be happy to help.