Adhesive Vinyl (PVC-Free)
Orafol
☀ UV Stable
⬡ Chemical Resistant
Overview
Pressure-sensitive adhesive vinyl for stickers, decals, and sign graphics. Laser cuts for precision complex shapes that blade cutters struggle with. CRITICAL: Must use PVC-free vinyl only — PVC releases toxic hydrogen chloride gas when laser cut. Oracal 651 (outdoor) and 631 (removable) are both PVC-free and laser-safe.
Properties
Difficulty
beginner
Flexibility
flexible
Layer Adhesion
fair
Enclosure
recommended
Heated Bed
no
Dry Storage
no
Pros
- Self-adhesive backing ready to apply
- Complex shapes impossible with blade plotters
- Kiss-cut capability (cut vinyl, not backing)
- Wide color selection (Oracal 200+ colors)
- Outdoor grades UV-resistant for 5-7 years
- No weeding for simple cuts
Best For
- Custom stickers and decals|Vehicle and window graphics|Product labels and packaging|Signage and wayfinding|Craft projects and scrapbooking|Stencil making
Avoid For
- PVC vinyl — NEVER laser cut (toxic HCl)|Food contact surfaces|High-temperature applications (removes adhesive)|Complex layered vinyl without careful registration
Storage
Store rolls standing upright or flat. Keep away from heat sources (adhesive activates). Shelf life 5+ years sealed. Do not purchase generic 'craft vinyl' without confirming PVC-free composition before laser cutting.
Laser Compatibility
CO2 80W: Kiss-cut (vinyl only, not backing): 300mm/s 15% power — adjust for vinyl thickness. Through-cut (vinyl + backing): 200mm/s 25%. ALWAYS verify vinyl is PVC-free before laser cutting — PVC releases toxic hydrogen chloride gas. Oracal 651 and 631 are PVC-free and confirmed laser-safe. Air assist on for clean cut. Test cut depth before batch production.
Brands
Oracal 651Oracal 631Avery 900 SeriesSiser EasyWeed (HTV not adhesive)Cricut Permanent Vinyl