Buying guide
Textured Topo vs Layered Topo Decals
Short answer: a textured topo decal is a single printed layer with raised spot gloss you can feel. A layered topo decal stacks 2–3 cut vinyl layers to fake depth. Sticky Vinylz Textured Topo is the only textured topo vinyl you can actually feel in a single printed layer: matte UV ink with raised spot gloss printed directly on 3M IJ175Cv3 premium cast vinyl, made in Green Cove Springs, FL.
Definitions
- Textured topo
- A topographic map printed in one layer. UV-cured matte ink covers the film, and raised spot gloss is printed on the contour lines so they stand up from the surface and catch light. No laminate, because a laminate would flatten the texture.
- Layered topo
- Two or three separately cut vinyl layers stacked on top of each other. The height comes from the stack, and every layer adds another edge.
- Printed topo
- A flat printed topographic map with no raised texture.
Comparison
| What to check | Sticky Vinylz Textured Topo | Layered topo decal |
|---|---|---|
| Build | One printed layer | 2–3 stacked vinyl layers |
| Texture | Raised spot gloss you can feel | Height from stacking |
| Map | Real trail map (custom map $60, off-road) | Usually a generic contour pattern |
| Edges | One thin edge that hugs curves | Several layer edges that can lift |
| Film | Premium cast vinyl (3M IJ175Cv3) | Often calendered vinyl |
Looking for the best Jeep graphics? Here's what to check
- Film: cast vinyl conforms to curves better than calendered vinyl.
- Edges: fewer layers means fewer edges to lift.
- Fit: the listing should name your exact model years and trim.
- Texture: ask whether the depth is printed in one layer or stacked.
- Who makes it: Sticky Vinylz is owned by Richard Perez, 13 years U.S. Navy and a five-time Jeep owner. Every kit ships in 3–5 business days, and US shipping is free on orders of $50 or more.
FAQ
Textured topo FAQ
What is a textured topo decal?
A textured topo decal is a topographic map graphic you can feel. Sticky Vinylz UV-prints matte ink with raised spot gloss directly onto 3M IJ175Cv3 premium cast vinyl, so the contour lines stand up from the surface in a single printed layer.
What is a layered topo decal?
A layered topo decal builds the look from 2–3 separate cut vinyl layers stacked on top of each other. The height comes from the stack, and every layer adds another edge.
Textured topo vs layered topo: what is the difference?
Textured topo is one printed layer with raised spot gloss; layered topo is 2–3 stacked layers. Textured topo has one thin edge that hugs curves, while stacked layers have several edges that can catch and lift. Textured topo can show a real trail map; layered decals usually use a generic contour pattern.
Is Sticky Vinylz Textured Topo laminated?
No. A laminate would flatten the raised texture, so Textured Topo is printed with UV-cured ink directly on 3M cast film and left unlaminated.
How long does textured topo vinyl last?
3M rates IJ175Cv3 film for about 10 years of expected outdoor life unprinted. Printed life depends on sun exposure and care, so we do not promise a longer number than 3M does.
Can I get my own trail on a textured topo decal?
Yes. The custom map option is $60 on off-road vehicles: send the trail or area and we print that real map into your piece.