Xbox 360 controller skins

Some of us never read directions - we just plough forward, making it up as we go along. Unfortunately, if you're not familiar with the application of a cast vinyl skin kit on a complex curved surface, the end result may not be what you expect. To make things easier, we've documented how we install our Xbox 360 controller skins. While you're free to put the skins on however you'd like, we find that following this sequence has great results.

As with any skin, start with a clean, well-lit working space (Fig.1).

Also make sure your controller is free of any oil, dirt or residue. Installing a skin on a controller covered with natural body oils (most people don't wash their hands before playing) can result in the skin coming loose.

To start with, remove the skin from its backing and hold it carefully with two hands (Fig.2) on either side.

Allow the center of the skin to sag slightly, and lower the skin to the controller, aligning it with the Xbox Guide, Start and Back buttons (Fig. 3). Press gently on around those three controls to bond that area once aligned.
Starting from below the Xbox Guide button, press down and bond the section of material between the Directional Pad and Right Stick. The skin stops at the edge where the white plastic upper portion meets the charcoal metallic strip; the lower edge of the skin can be bonded (Fig. 4) to the controller.
The next step is to bond the skin material immediately around the directional control (Fig.5). Don't bond the lower left portion of the skin yet - that should stay loose for the time being.
Once the skin around the Directional Control is set, carefully bond the skin at the 11 o'clock position above the Left Stick (Fig.6). You may end up with what looks like excess material on either side of the bond - once that entire area is bonded, the material can be smoothed out, starting towards the center of the controller and working out.
The finished result (Fig.7) fits tightly and contours to the compound curves on the controller.
While gently holding the lower right portion of the skin, bond the material around the Y, X, B and A buttons (Fig.8). Again, start towards the center of the controller and work outwards - this allows you to push any air pockets or minor wrinkles out as they occur.
Once the upper portion around those buttons is bonded, gently pull the skin taught and bond the 5 o'clock position (Fig 9.). Using the same technique as the upper left portion, then bond the material on either side, smoothing it out as you go.
The finished result (Fig.10) is typical DecalGirl - a precision fit that looks like clear-coated airbrushed artwork! The operation of the controller isn't affected at all, nor is any warranty. The skin can be cleaned as needed with a damp cloth, but do not use any solvents as they may damage the protective coating.