The custom dry transfer industry is an enduringly popular boutique one. The decals have recently gained considerable popularity as a museum and art gallery wall labels and continue in many other uses. They include product prototyping, interior signage, small-batch product labels, instrument panel lettering, and more. Custom dry transfers are made at specialized production houses that output them from client-supplied digital files. It's a linear process that guarantees precise results with no surprises. Turnaround times are quick, and it's not expensive to have overnight shipping if needed.

Versatility is a plus in any visual medium, and custom dry transfers are excellent for many applications. As long as you apply them to a clean, smooth surface, they'll work well and stay in place. The initial single-step application is instantly semi-permanent. It's more than you can say for other methods where you're left waiting for things to set or dry. Transfer decals also have a slightly raised appearance on the surface which has a higher-end appearance. The goal is to give a painted-on look that's ideal on walls. It also helps prototype samples appear like final manufactured products.

If you're working on a limited budget and need multiple decals, they are priced by the sheet. You'll quickly bring down the cost if you can gang up or fit several on each page. When it comes time to apply them, you only need a pair of ordinary scissors to cut them apart. It's that easy and means no special equipment or process is required for application. If you've tried stick-on vinyl lettering and had issues with air bubbles, it never happens with transfer decals. They go on smoothly every time; even if it's your first time using them, there is no learning curve. You can't say the same for the competing options.

Museums and art galleries favor dry transfer decals for their exhibit captions because having them directly on the wall is a genius look. No matter how elegantly printed, exhibit cards can never look as impressive. Artists love the transfers because it's less to compete with the artwork. When the caption is directly on the wall, the only element present is the words. It lets the painting or sculpture stand on its own without visual interruption. It might sound like a small detail at first, but remember; every piece has a caption, meaning many cards can be eliminated. It's an excellent alternative solution.