Advanced Shrinking Tips | Perfect Corners & Double Snap

Summary

In this instructional video, Patrick shares essential tips for effectively shrinking back windows without causing damage. He emphasizes avoiding a traditional H pattern, which can lead to creasing and film damage. Instead, he recommends a double snap technique for the top and bottom, isolating corners first, and using a single finger for a more controlled shrink. Patrick also advises on proper heat application and how to deal with creases, ensuring a smooth and professional result.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ Patrick introduces his method for shrinking back windows, emphasizing it's not a full tutorial but a set of tips and tricks.
• 🔍 He advises against a traditional H pattern, as it can hinder the shrinking process and lead to creasing and damage.
• 👆 Patrick demonstrates a 'double snap' technique for the top and bottom of the window to avoid chasing heat and ensuring even shrinkage.
• 📏 He emphasizes the importance of keeping the H pattern centered to make the process easier and prevent uneven shrinkage.
• 👁️ Patrick suggests using one finger to monitor the center of the H pattern and to guide the shrinkage process.
• 🔄 He explains how to isolate corners first to avoid bunching up film, which can lead to creasing.
• 🔥 When shrinking, Patrick recommends watching the film as it shrinks and using a hard card like a smart card or Mac Tac to apply pressure.
• ✂️ He advises against over-shrinking the film and suggests leaving some extra film as 'insurance' that can be trimmed off at the end.
• 🔄 Patrick demonstrates how to correct creases by getting air under them and heating to flatten them out.
• 👆 For top corners, he suggests lifting and guiding the film outwards to relieve pressure and avoid creasing.
• 🔄 The double snap technique is reiterated for both the top and bottom, emphasizing not to do corners to prevent unwanted shrinkage and damage.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Patrick's video?

The main topic of Patrick's video is providing tips and tricks on how to properly shrink back windows, focusing on avoiding common mistakes.

Why does Patrick suggest avoiding a traditional H pattern when shrinking back windows?

Patrick suggests avoiding a traditional H pattern because it can hinder the process, leading to creasing and potential damage to the film due to excessive pressure in the corners.

What technique does Patrick recommend for shrinking back windows instead of a traditional H pattern?

Patrick recommends a technique involving a 'double snap' on the top and bottom, and focusing on isolating the corners first to avoid creasing and damage.

How should one position their fingers when applying the 'double snap' technique?

When applying the 'double snap' technique, one should use only one finger to keep the H pattern centered, which helps in evenly shrinking the film without creating excessive pressure in certain areas.

What is the purpose of keeping the H pattern centered while shrinking back windows?

Keeping the H pattern centered ensures that the film shrinks evenly, avoiding issues like large creases or uneven shrinkage that can occur with uneven finger pressure.

Why is it important to monitor the center of the H pattern during the shrinking process?

Monitoring the center of the H pattern helps to maintain even pressure and prevents the film from creasing or being damaged due to excessive heat or pressure in one area.

What should one do if they notice a crease forming during the shrinking process?

If a crease is noticed, one should apply heat to the area, get an air bubble underneath the crease, and then squeeze it out to flatten it.

How can one avoid over-shrinking the film when using the 'double snap' technique?

To avoid over-shrinking, one should focus on shrinking specific areas like the top 2 inches or bottom 2 inches and avoid applying too much heat or pressure to the entire film.

What is the 'double snap' technique and how does it help in shrinking back windows?

The 'double snap' technique involves lifting and re-shrinking specific areas of the film, such as the bottom or top 2 inches, to tighten the film without the need for excessive heat chasing, thus preventing damage.

Why should one avoid shrinking the corners during a double snap?

Corners should be avoided during a double snap because if a finger is present and heat is applied, it can cause the film to crease or buckle, leading to damage.

How can one ensure the film stays straight and doesn't crease while shrinking?

To ensure the film stays straight, one can use the excess film to pull and guide it into place, applying heat as needed, and being mindful of pressure distribution.