Decal << DEE kal or dih KAL >> is the process of transferring printed designs, letters, or pictures from specially prepared paper onto various surfaces. The word decalcomania << dee `kal` kuh MAY nee uh >> also describes this process. The print transferred is called a decal or decal transfer. Decals can be applied to such surfaces as glass, wood, plastic, and metal. They have many domestic and commercial uses. Manufacturers decorate dishes, furniture, and other products with decals. People use them to decorate toys, windows, and personal items. Decals are also used as automobile licensing stickers on windows because they are difficult to remove.
A decal is made of a thin film of oil paint and lacquer. It is coated on one side with a special adhesive and placed on a paper backing. Some decals can be lifted off the backing and applied directly to an object. Others must be soaked in water to soften the adhesive. The decal is then slid from the backing onto the desired surface. The adhesive dries in about a minute and makes the decal stick.
Decals were developed in Germany in the 1800’s. They were first used on dinnerware as a cheaper decorative process than hand painting.
