What sticks to a hull

I lost my 17 in a storm a couple of years ago and have finally replaced it with an '02 Getaway. I have peeled off my old graphics, they were toast. What do I need to look for in custom graphics? Does the vinyl have to have an adhesive back?

thanks
Frank

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Frank, sailing '02 Getaway in Wichita KS. Lake Cheney
(Hobie 17 RIP, storm of '05)

You can probably get custom graphics made up, they are almost always adhesived backed. I have applied graphics to vehicles, boats, even 'flying H's I picked up from the Hobie dealer, to my Wave. The trick is, get the surface really clean, then apply some lightly soapy water, keep the surface soaked. Peel the backing off the graphics, and apply it to the wetted surface. Keep soaking it down w/ a spray bottle or whatever. Use a sponge and rubber squeggie, slowly work the water/bubles out. It may appear that it is not sticking, but be patient. If you get all the water out, it will stick. Let it dry overnight and it will look like a pro install! Seems to stick fairly well to the PE hulls. Not as god as gel coat or paint, but seems tight so far.

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Jim

2007 Hobie Wave