Matte vinyl film has become a popular choice for vehicle wraps—loved by car owners for its clean, unique finish, and preferred by many installers for its ease of application. If you’re new to wrapping or considering using matte film for your next project, it’s important to understand its unique properties to get the best results.
Unlike directional or textured films like carbon fiber or matte metallic, matte film is non-directional. This makes installation significantly easier since you don’t have to align patterns or worry about inconsistent reflections across panels.
Matte vs. Gloss: A Comparison
Matte film behaves somewhat similarly to gloss vinyl wrap, especially when it comes to cutting and measuring. For example, if your car typically requires 20 yards of wrap, you can often get away with just 18 yards of matte film—saving you material and cost, as long as you’re efficient in your layout and cutting.
However, don’t be fooled into thinking matte is entirely foolproof. While it may seem more forgiving during installation, there are a few key areas where matte requires extra attention.
Watch Out for Scratches, Dirt, and Oil Marks
One of the main challenges with matte wrap is that it’s sensitive to scratches, fingerprints, and dirt. Oils from your skin can easily leave visible marks on the surface, especially on lighter colors like white or beige.
Pro Tips for Clean Application:
- Always wash your hands before handling matte vinyl.
- Wear application gloves to prevent fingerprints and oil transfer.
- Use a squeegee with a soft fabric buffer, ideally one that works with soapy water, to avoid scratching the surface.
Self-Healing Properties: Use with Caution
Most high-quality matte films are laminated, meaning minor scratches can often self-heal with heat. If you notice light scuffs during installation, simply use a heat gun to gently warm the area and restore the surface to its original matte finish.
⚠️ Important Warning:
Never use a torch or open flame. It may gloss the surface permanently—and once the film becomes glossy, it cannot be reversed.
Avoid Overstretching the Film
While matte vinyl is considered low-stress and easy to handle, it’s crucial not to overstretch it. If overstretched, the film may become shiny or distorted, especially in curved or recessed areas.
This shine cannot be undone, and will disrupt the uniform matte look you’re going for.
Final Thoughts: Is Matte Vinyl Right for You?
If applying gloss film is rated 1 out of 10 in difficulty, matte film is about a 2 or 3—simple enough for most intermediate wrappers, but not completely risk-free. With a few precautions and the right tools, matte film is a great option for achieving a sleek, modern look on any vehicle.