Wrapping tools can be game changers when it comes to ensuring that vehicles have smooth, long-lasting finishes that exude style and professionalism whilst stationary or on the road. Among the usual surface cleaners, blades, and cutting tapes, there’s a tool that stands out as the most essential for any wrapper. This tool will be, without a doubt, the squeegee.

Squeegees are known for their ability to apply even pressure along a vehicle’s surface, stamping out the presence of unsightly bubbles or wrinkles. Some are even designed with flexible and felt edges, allowing them to precisely glide over curves and contours for an impeccable wrapping experience.

However, squeegees weren’t always as effective as they are now, starting off as nothing more than repurposed makeshift tools. But thanks to multiple improvements over time, they have become arguably one of the most sophisticated pieces of equipment for applying vehicle wrap vinyl, which leaves us with the question: how did they get better?

The Early Days of Squeegees

Before vehicle wrapping became mainstream, people relied on makeshift tools to smooth out vinyl due to the lack of specialised equipment available. The first instances of squeegees were simply stiff plastic scrapers, which were often repurposed from other industries. These early incarnations had a few drawbacks, including a lack of flexibility and grip, along with sharp edges.

However, despite their limitations, these early models laid down the foundation for what was to come, as when vehicle wrapping became more common, so did the demand for better tools, leading to the first innovations in squeegee technology.

The Rise of Modern, Innovative Squeegees

As vinyl wrap materials advanced, so did the tools used to apply them. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a wave of new squeegee innovations that improved their performance, usability, and overall efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at these new designs and why they were so revolutionary for vehicle wrappers.

Felt-Edge Squeegees

One of the first major improvements was the introduction of felt-edge squeegees, which featured a soft felt strip along their edges. This soft layer helped prevent damage to delicate vinyl surfaces as well as reduce friction, allowing for a smoother application. It was a very simple development but extremely effective at preventing errors and damage during wrapping.

Teflon Squeegees

Squeegees then began to become even more precise and advanced, with manufacturers developing Teflon-coated variants. Teflon is a low-friction material which proved to be excellent at stopping vinyl from sticking to the tool itself, making wrapping even easier and faster.

Magnetic Squeegees

A more recent development is the magnetic squeegee. This tool, as the name suggests, incorporates built-in magnets, allowing wrappers to easily attach it to metal surfaces whilst working, helping keep their hands free for adjustments. These models might not be essential for every job but can be very convenient, especially for wrapping larger vehicles like vans.

Steering Towards the Future – What’s Next for the Squeegee?

This humble vehicle wrapping tool has come a long way from its early incarnations as a simple, stiff plastic scraper. After seeing numerous innovations such as felt edges, Teflon coatings, and magnetic grips, modern improvements have helped make squeegees one of the best tools available for applying vinyl wrap, offering speed, precision, and convenience.

But tools are always evolving, and who’s to say that we won’t see further innovations later down the line. We’re already beginning to see incorporations of AI in squeegee usage, such as this test, which features a robot using one with a set amount of grip and force. As technology advances, it can revolutionise even the simplest of tools, so be sure to keep a lookout, as in the future, these squeegees could make vehicle wrapping even easier!

Squeegees from ATC – Feel Like a Wrap God!

At ATC, we make sure to stay aware of the latest wrapping technologies to ensure that the tools we offer can make your applications go as smoothly as possible. A large part of our tool collection is our selection of high-quality squeegees that are designed with efficiency, strength, and convenience in mind!

One of our best offerings is the Marathon Microfibre Squeegee. We know that felt-lined variants are imperative for avoiding scratches, but we’ve chosen to go a step further by kitting them out with microfibre edges which are even softer than felt, giving you even greater peace of mind!

With our products, you can wrap your vans and cars with ease and without the worry of costly mistakes. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our full range of squeegees today! If you have any questions, then please don’t hesitate to email sales@apptape.co.uk.