In a perfect world, your designer vinyl decals will apply quickly and easily to your surface. That's how it's supposed to work.  But on occasion a decal does not stick.  Why? Now what?  

It's important to test your surface for stickability prior to applying your purchased decals.  Use the test decals included in your package.  They don't need to be permanent.  Test the surface and then remove the practice decal if you wish.

Certain paints seem to repel vinyl decals.  They are typically Paint and Primer in One OR Stain and Seal combo products.  These 2 in 1 paints and stains may have additives that cause the decal to bubble or don't allow you to get enough stick to remove the transfer tape.  If you are making cornhole boards and encounter this issue, I recommend you apply a few coats of Minwax Polycrylic and then apply your decal.  

The photo collage shows my grands baby nursery.  The walls were already painted when mama and papa moved into their new home and with the arrival of baby they were excited to decorate.  When the decal would not stick I had them look for the paint can.  Paint & Primer in One.  Ugh!  Since they were not willing to repaint the wall, replacement decals were made and applied to wood frame plaques from Hobby Lobby.  It's all good now but it became a bigger project than necessary.  

When choosing your paint or stain, avoid 2 in 1 products if you plan to apply decals.