When applying a flag label it can be tricky to line up the two ends and once stuck you can't peel it and try again. Now this will not affect the function or longevity of the label, but you may prefer it to line up exactly. Here at Sea-ID we appreciate the perfectionist so if you want perfect results then this step by step guide is just for you.
The content of flag labels is in two halves. Sometimes this is repeated so when folded both sides are the same.
Flag labels are designed to fold in half. There will be no text or images at the fold.
Line up the ends and lightly make a crease exactly at the centre.
The crease will help us line up later. Some labels have a dotted line at the centre but not the one in this guide.
The backing paper has a cut down the length to make it easier to peel off. Gently fold the label to detach the backing paper.
Pull it so that the backing paper is detached at the middle of the label.
Snip out the centre section of the backing paper.
Do the same for the other half.
The amount you remove should be enough to go round whatever you are attaching the label to plus a couple of centimetres more. In this case a bridle line so 3cm is enough.
Choose a short bridle close to the kite. Avoid using bridles running through or attached to pulleys. Bear in mind that after repeated immersion in water the label will be able to move along the line.
Now place the label next to the bridle or whatever you are attaching to. The crease you made earlier should be faintly visible to roughly line it up.
Now line up precisely by matching the two ends of the label. The important bit: don't stick the label until you have lined up the two ends exactly over each other. They should line up side-to-side and lengthways.
Hold the ends in place and stick the two sides together, working towards the fold.
Move towards the fold. The centre part of the label will stick to itself.
Only the part where we cut out the backing paper will have stuck, now we must remove the rest.
Remove the rest of the backing paper.
Working from the centre stick the two sides together. Avoid making any ripples. Take your time, this bit can be tricky. It's ok to touch the sticky side with your fingers but try not to do it excessively and have clean hands.
Job done! If it doesn't line up exactly then don't worry, the label will still hold. If you are tempted to use scissors to trim the label then make sure they are very sharp.
Many kites have a stiff plastic patch for manufacturer information, etc. If this is smooth then you could stick a normal label on it. We have positive feedback from customers using this method. We definitely advise you do not stick a label onto the kite fabric; it is not smooth enough to get a sealed contact.
Here are some flag labels used to show part numbers, they are the manufacturer's not ours.
