A decal, short for decalcomania, is a plastic, cloth, paper, or ceramic substrate that has printed on it a pattern or image that can be moved to another surface upon contact, usually with the aid of heat or water. Decals are often used for decorative purposes, and they are usually used outdoors. They can be transferred from one surface to another and will have three layers – a mounting film on the front, transport paper on the back, and the decal itself. Decals are usually more durable than regular stickers, therefore, they’re suitable for being applied outside.
The term "decal" refers to the mass-produced art transfer in two different states:
- As manufactured, which consists of the artwork printed on the upper side of a paper or film label stock, temporarily affixed by a typically water or heat-soluble adhesive to the upper side of a silicone- or other release agent-coated paper.
- As applied, which involves the transfer of the printed image from the label stock to a substrate, such as a vehicle body or window.
In summary, a decal is a type of sticker that is usually used outdoors and can be transferred from one surface to another with the aid of heat or water. They are often used for decorative purposes and are more durable than regular stickers.
