News

True dry apply PPF is finally here!  With the rise of dry apply PPF, car wrappers are increasingly facing new challenges in installation and sales (dry apply PPF can be expensive)!  TPU films offer excellent protection but, without the right skills, applying them can become frustrating and expensive as redos can be costly. From cutting to conforming to curves and recessed areas, every step requires precision and deep product knowledge. That's why it's crucial to understand the fundamentals before attempting to install dry apply PPF. Obtaining this knowledge improves your confidence which will help ensure a flawless, professional result which is what TWI is all about providing you.

How to Cut Dry Apply PPF
One of the most important steps in working with dry apply PPF is knowing how to cut it correctly. This is critical because cutting directly on the paint with a knife is required more than any other type of install.  The reason is Knifeless Tape (including Precision Line) doesn’t cut through dry apply PPF at all or, if it does, straight. Good to know!  Therefore, it’s essential to understand the right depth and angle to cut as well as choosing the right blades for this type of material. Essential TWI Tips: Make sure you click your blade often so they are always sharp and know you will use around twice as many blades than a standard PVC color change install.

How to Form It  Into Recessed Areas
Applying dry apply PPF to recessed areas requires a new way of thinking as it’s much different than PVC color change film.  The reasons for this are: heat isn’t recommended, the material is thick and PU film stretches in a unique manner.  In a way, forming dry apply PPF to recessed areas is much like practicing Judo—it’s all about finesse and knowing how to maneuver the film with muscle and technique.  This method relies heavily on your understanding of how the film moves and conforms. By applying the right techniques, you can avoid overstretching or leaving too much tension that will cause the film to lift.  Based on our techniques, they will help ensure a smooth and durable finish that protects the vehicle’s curves and contours.

Overlaps and Edges
Dry apply PPF comes with a protective top coat that has a very low surface energy. This is for all finishes including gloss!   This means the protocol for overlaps is critical to dial in otherwise the overlaps will not hold (even for a day).  Creating perfect overlaps with dry apply PPF demands the use of a butane torch to secure the layers.   This step is crucial for creating clean, nearly invisible overlaps that enhance the overall look of the wrap while being durable for years. With the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that your overlaps don’t just look professional but also maintain the film’s protective qualities over time.

To dive deeper into these techniques, explore our brand-new playlist exclusively on TWI:

1. TWI Fundamentals: Dry Apply PPF - INLAYS
   Watch here

2. TWI Fundamentals: Dry Apply PPF - RECESSED AREAS
   Watch here

3. TWI Fundamentals: Dry Apply PPF - Finishing Edges
   Watch here

4. TWI Fundamentals: Dry Apply PPF - OVERLAPS
   Watch here

Join us to learn more: 

This Thursday for TWI Platinum Live we will approach the topic: Dry Apply PPF - The New Game In Town: A Deep Breakdown On How To Wrap With This New Film Featuring Justin Pate. This is an exclusive opportunity for Platinum members to engage directly with one of the top experts in the field and ask questions in real time. Not a Platinum member yet? Use promo code JOINTWI15 for a discount to upgrade and unlock these live sessions.

At The Wrap Institute, we are dedicated to helping you grow as a professional and excel in your craft. With our support and the right training, every challenge becomes an opportunity to learn and improve. Let’s continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of wraps. Never Stop Learning.

Marcos Schott - Certified Car Wrapper and TWI CCO