A Day in the Workshop: Creating Wall Decals from Start to Finish
Welcome to the workshop! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain to show you a behind-the-scenes look at how I bring each wall decal to life—from the first design spark to the final cut and package. Whether you’re an art lover, a DIY enthusiast, or just curious about how wall decals are made, come along and spend the day with me in the studio!
Morning: Orders and Emails
My day begins bright and early, fuelled by a hot cup of coffee and a quick scan of my emails and orders. Before jumping into the creative work, I like to start with a little bit of "admin time" to make sure everything is running smoothly. This is when I catch up on emails from customers, reply to inquiries, and check in on any special requests that have come in overnight. Some customers might be looking for specific colours, custom sizing, or even entirely unique designs, so staying on top of these messages is crucial for ensuring everyone gets the perfect wall decal for their space.
Next, I go over my current orders. I love seeing what’s popular each day, and it’s always interesting to see which designs are catching people’s attention. This early morning check also gives me a chance to make sure I have enough materials on hand, like rolls of vinyl, transfer paper, and packaging supplies. If I’m running low on anything, I’ll place an order so there’s no risk of delays for my customers.
I also take a moment to review feedback from recent orders. Seeing positive reviews is a huge boost in the morning—it reminds me why I love what I do and keeps me motivated to make each decal with care. If there’s ever any constructive feedback, I note it down so I can improve or make adjustments.
Once I’m all caught up, I’m ready to dive into design mode for the day, knowing that everything is in place for my orders to go out smoothly.
Mid Morning to Lunch: Preparing Orders
With my coffee replenished, I dive into the satisfying work of preparing orders. This is when the studio really comes to life, as I gather everything needed to bring each order from concept to shipment. I start by either cutting or printing the designs on the selected vinyl sheets, making sure each one matches the colours and sizes requested by customers. Every order is unique, so I double-check the details carefully - especially for custom sizes or personalised decals.
After cutting, there’s a meticulous process called "weeding," where I peel away the excess vinyl to reveal the final design. This step requires patience and precision, especially for intricate patterns and delicate details. It’s a meditative part of the process - I get into a flow, carefully lifting away each tiny piece until the design is just right.
Finally, I prepare the transfer sheets, which help customers apply the decals seamlessly to their walls. Each decal is layered with application tape, a transfer sheet, which not only protects the design but also makes it easy to line up perfectly on any surface. Once the decals are ready, I move them to the packaging stage, where the final touches happen.
Each order is a mix of creativity and attention to detail, and I want my customers to feel that as soon as they open their package. It’s satisfying to know that in just a few days, these designs will be on walls in homes, offices, and nurseries, adding personality and joy to someone’s space!
Lunch Break and Recharge
Every day in the studio, I like to pause for lunch and take a moment to step away from the work. Most of the time, I'll grab a ukulele (I have13 of them) and will play for a bit. There’s something about a break that helps me come back with fresh eyes and new ideas.
Afternoon: Packaging with a Personal Touch
Once the orders are ready, it’s time to package them for shipping. I use eco-friendly materials as much as possible, from recyclable cardboard tubes to biodegradable tape. Packaging is where I like to add a personal touch, often with a handwritten thank-you note and full instruction sheets to help customers apply their decal perfectly.
I believe the unboxing experience is as much a part of the art as the decal itself. So, I package each order with care, knowing that someone will soon be unwrapping it and transforming their space with my work.
Evening: Final Wrap-Up and Reflection
As I wind down for the day, I take a moment to organise my workspace and jot down any notes for tomorrow. Whether it’s a new idea that popped up or something to improve on a design, I find that recording these thoughts helps keep my creative momentum going. It’s been a fulfilling day in the workshop, with new designs brought to life and ready to become a part of someone’s space.
Making wall decals is a process that takes time, precision, and a lot of love for the details. I hope this gives you a glimpse into the heart and craft behind each decal. Thank you for joining me on this day in the workshop, and I can’t wait to share more of these creations with you!