How it Works
Original Logo
Vinyl decals can offer a clear or transparent layer, however on Raised Decals this is not possible. On designs that have separate sections we need to be able to connect them with a back layer. We generally do this the same color as the helmet or another secondary color.
In the Viper example if we did not connect the jaw to the head there would need to be 2 separate mold fees and separate decals to make up your logo.
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For the JP3 example below, all the letters and the word "BASEBALL" were detached. If not connected we would be unable to produce the logo as a 3D decal.
3D Rendering with
a Back Layer
In the 3D rendering of the viper the black outline was thickened to be able to connect the jaw to the head. The same thickness was used on the full design to create a unified and professional look.
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For the JP3 3D rendering below, an outline bubbled around the letters formed the back layer to connect all of the separate pieces. This is generally how word or letter style logos are adjusted. Adding the back layer also gives another dimension to the 3D element.
The examples below highlight how these special cases are handled. Our design team with work with you directly regarding changes made to your original logo.
Final Product
The 3D rendering is then used by our production department as a blueprint to create your super awesome final product!
Detached Pieces Guidance for Custom Helmet Decals
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Understanding Detached Pieces in Helmet Decal Designs
​When preparing artwork for custom helmet decals, it is important to understand how detached pieces in a design may affect the final production of the decal. Detached pieces are elements of a logo that are not physically connected to the rest of the design and would exist as separate pieces when produced as a raised decal.
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Examples of detached pieces often appear in logos that contain:
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floating interior shapes
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separated letters or design elements
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isolated details that do not touch the main artwork
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thin shapes or accents that stand alone​​
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Since decals cannot rely on a transparent backing to hold separate elements together, detached pieces may require adjustments during the design process. In some cases, elements may need to be connected to the main logo, supported by a back layer, or slightly modified so the final decal can be manufactured and applied correctly.
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Our design team reviews all submitted artwork to ensure that every element of the logo can be produced as a durable, easy-to-apply raised decal while preserving the appearance of the original design as closely as possible.
Some popular styles of logos that we find need back layers are:
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Stars on either side of a main logo
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Number designs
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Words at either the top of bottom of the logo that sit separately.
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HOW WE HANDLE IT
Stars and number logos are almost always separate pieces in a digital logo — and that's completely fine. We handle this on nearly every order that includes them. Instead of treating each element separately, we convert the design into one connected decal.
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The most common fix is simply moving the elements of the design closer so they touch the other portions of the logo, connecting everything into one decal. When that isn't possible or desired, we add a back layer behind the stars and the main element to tie them together. The back layer is usually matched to the helmet color or a team secondary color.
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Either way, you'll see exactly how it looks in your design proof before anything goes to production.​
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Note: Design proofs show final approved designs for the client. They may include color changes, size of element changes, etc. to reflect the final design being produced. Colors in production are matched to Pantone colors and different software's used in the graphic design process will render colors slightly differently. Final produced products are based on Pantone colors.
Original Design - stars are separate from main logo
Final Design Proof - updated with stars connected to center logo
Original Logo
Design with outline which connects numbers
Final Produced Logo
Number Logo Example
Logos with Stars - Examples
Letters and Word Examples
Why connecting the separate pieces matters
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Keeping elements separate would mean:
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Multiple molds
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Higher cost per design
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More complicated application
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By combining everything into one decal, we:
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Keep it to a single mold
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Maintain the original look of the design
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Make installation faster and more consistent
Final Design Approval
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All final specifications for your decal design will be included in your design proof before production begins. It is important to review the proof carefully and confirm that all elements of the design meet your expectations.
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Once an order enters the production schedule, changes to artwork or sizing are not possible, so final approval is required before manufacturing begins.
Original Logo
Design with outline which connects numbers
Final Produced Logo