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TKART magazine How To | How to apply the sticker kit on your kart without bubbles: the complete guide
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HOW TO APPLY THE STICKER KIT ON YOUR KART WITHOUT BUBBLES: THE COMPLETE GUIDE

TECHNIQUES, TOOLS, AND PRO TIPS!

Giacomo Mantovani
21 January 2025 • 24 min. read
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1 Introduction

Applying stickers on kart bodywork may seem like a simple and straightforward task. In reality, it’s a process that requires precision, a solid understanding of materials, and the right techniques to achieve a professional-grade result. Whether you’re fitting stickers on a brand-new kart or refreshing the graphics on a used one, paying close attention to detail is essential to ensure perfect adhesion and long-lasting durability of the decals. This complete guide, created with the technical input of Carlo De Bei, co-owner of CKR (an Italian manufacturer of racing kart chassis), covers everything you need for a flawless sticker application: from the initial cleaning of both new and used bodywork, to selecting the right products and tools, and applying advanced techniques for different surfaces, whether flat or curved. You’ll also learn how to avoid the most common mistakes and improve the overall look of your kart, achieving a professional and durable finish.

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From the removal of old stickers to cleaning the bodywork. We carried out tests with various products and tools to find the most suitable solution for different situations.
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The application techniques share common foundations, but there are precautions that can make a difference depending on the type of surface (flat or curved) you are dealing with.
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Although this guide will be useful for applying stickers on any type of bodywork, regardless of the brand or model you own, it’s important to note that the components used during the preparation of this guide were: [1] Front spoiler KG MK20, [2] Front fairing KG 507, [3] Side pods KG CR006, [4] Rear protection KG 003 Hulk
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Our technical partner for this article was Carlo De Bei, co-owner of CKR and a mechanical engineer.
2 The Necessary Tools and Products

To properly apply the sticker kit on your kart’s set of bodywork, the techniques and precautions revealed in this article are not enough. In fact, you will also need the right products for surface treatment and suitable tools that will help facilitate the process. In the images below, you will find, in detail, all the materials used in the preparation of this article.

Editorial Note
In the articles of the Magazine Must Have | 5 products (and 2 accessories) to apply your kart sticker kit like a real pro! e Must Have | How should a sticker kit be attached to a kart’s fairings? 5 instruments that will ensure "surgical" precision. You can also explore different alternatives to the tools and products used in this guide.

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[1] Absorbent paper for cleaning the surfaces; [2] professional solvent Sergen Glue Remover; [3] high-volatility professional solvent Sergent Plastic Cleaner; [4] Würth brake cleaner; [5] WD-40 multi-purpose lubricant; [6] water-based solvent Chanteclair; [7] pressed felt sponge; [8] scissors; [9] cutter; [10] latex gloves; [11] heat gun; [12] pre-cut complete sticker kit. Additionally, to mark and identify reference points on the bodywork, we used a digital caliper, a measuring tape, and erasable markers.
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