• What is vinyl lettering?
• What is your return policy?
• What surfaces can I apply the designs to?
• Can I reuse the design or lettering?
• Can I put the design on any surface?
• Can it be used in rooms with high humidity like bathrooms?
• Can I use the designs outdoors?
• Does it work on tile?
• Can it be cleaned?
• What size do the designs come in?
• How do you install the designs?
• How do you remove the designs?
• Do you ship internationally, and are there extra charges?
• When can I expect my design to arrive?
• What if I need the order to arrive fast?
• There are so many colors. Can I get a sample of them to pick from?
• Can I get a catalog?

What is vinyl lettering? TOP

It is prespaced lettering made of very, very thin pieces of vinyl. A light adhesive holds each vinyl piece firmly to most hard, smooth surfaces until you're ready to remove them. Vinyl is flexible, durable and washable. Its extreme thinness and matte finish make the designs look as though it's been printed on your surface. You get the look of stencils without the mess and hassle.

What is your return policy? TOP

We cheerfully offer refunds up to 45 days from the purchase date. We recommend installing the design soon after receiving the design as the vinyl will get more difficult to apply over time. if you have a problem with your design we will do our best to rectify the situation and get you a new design out as soon as possible. 

What surfaces can I apply the designs to? TOP

They can be applied to smooth, hard, clean surfaces such as wood, walls, windows, mirrors, doors and even appliances such as fridges, washers and dryers, and dishwashers. They do best on non-porous surfaces.

Can I reuse the design or lettering? TOP

Unfortunately, no. The lettering is extremely thin and tends to stretch and tear as it is being removed. You'll also lose the precise positioning of the letters.

Can I put the design on any surface? TOP

The lettering won't adhere properly to fabric, rough surfaces, dirty walls, some matte paints or to paint that isn't well bonded with the underlying surface.

Can it be used in rooms with high humidity like bathrooms? TOP

Humidity doesn't affect the performance of the lettering. The surface that you transfer your image to should be dry and clean.

Can I use the designs outdoors? TOP

Yes. It doesn't transfer as easily in freezing weather, though, and the surface you're applying it to shouldn't be hot to the touch. Also be sure that the surface is clean, dry, hard, smooth and flat. We do have outdoor rated vinyl in white and black, which work well on surfaces such as car windows, mailboxes, and front doors. If you need a design using the outdoor rated vinyl, simply let us know in the comments field during checkout.

Does it work on tile? TOP

It performs beautifully on glazed tile, but be aware that the transfers have a matte finish that may contrast oddly with a shiny tile. The transfers also won't work well over grout lines.

Can it be cleaned? TOP

Use a mild household cleaner, a soft cloth or sponge, and a light touch. Avoid cleaners that contain alcohol or abrasives.

What size do the designs come in? TOP

Our designs are generally measured in inches of the overall design... highest to lowest point, etc. If the design says that it is 20 x 15 that means that it is 20 inches wide and 15 inches tall. If you need a specific size that is not listed, please send us an e-mail at info@tradingphrases.com and ask if your size can be accommodated.

How do you install the designs? TOP

Every design is essentially a large pre-spaced decal. You peel away the backing, position the decal, press firmly to the wall, and then carefully remove the application-tape layer that is over the design/letters. Each order comes with a detailed instruction sheet and a practice design that you can use to practice your technique.

How do you remove the designs? TOP

To remove the designs you simply get a finger under one of the edges and peel up, much like removing a sticker from a flat surface. If the design has been in place for a while and is stubborn, simply heat it with a hair dryer for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive before removing the design. Any residue left can be wiped off with a damp rag.

Do you ship internationally, and are there extra charges? TOP

We do ship internationally, and the charges are as follows:

Canada:Orders using standard USPS First Class International have a delivery time frame of up to 21 days, but are cost effective at $5.75, the same amount we charge for domestic orders. There is no on line tracking of the shipment, however. Another option is to choose the express 6-10 day delivery for $19.95. This gets the shipment there quicker and provides a confirmation number that provides some hope of tracking if it doesn't show up (the US Postal Service is fairy uncommittal about international tracking of orders.)

Here is a handy calculator to determine how much an item will really cost, including the shipping. http://www.thefinalcost.com/shipments/calculate/

International: At this time we only ship via First Class International Mail for our international packages. This option is cost effective ($14.95 per order), but can take up to 21 days for delivery. There is also no online tracking of the shipment.

For all international orders, customs taxes, VAT, or other local fees may also apply as the package is delivered.

When can I expect my design to arrive? TOP

We ship through USPS First Class or Priority Mail which generally takes 2-5 business days for delivery, depending on the area of the country you’re in.  The delivery can take up to 21 days for international shipments. Express options are available for US and Canadian orders. The USPS.com site can provide more details around shipment guarantees.

What if I need the order to arrive fast? TOP

For US orders, the shipping generally takes 3-7 days. If you need an item faster, there is an order option for express delivery. We'll make herculean efforts to get the package to the shipment office as fast as possible, and then it will be delivered in 1-2 business days. See the USPS guidelines for Express shipping for more information. Canadian orders can be expedited to arrive in 6-10 days. We don't currently have any express shipping options for international orders, but are willing to work with customers on a case by case basis if an item needs to be expedited.

There are so many colors. Can I get a sample of them to pick from? TOP

Yes, simply submit a sample request form where you may select up to 6 colors. We'll get that shipped out to you generally the next day.

Why can't you get all colors you ask? Well, technically you can by submitting the sample request form a few times. We find, however, that few people (read: none ever) ever actually order designs in all of the 48+ colors available--it's just too daunting to select from them all. If you really find that you have to have all of the colors, then shoot us an email and we'll try to accommodate your request.

Can I get a catalog? TOP

We strive to maintain a very small impact on the environment and an even smaller impact on your wallet.  Therefore we only maintain an online catalog.  The catalog is maintained online, and the handy keyword searches and categories should let you find a lot of choices.