Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for the creation and application of visual images such as textual characters is provided, which preferably makes use of a digital computer (12) and laser printer (16). In the preferred method, a desired image is developed using the computer (12), typically with specific selection of font style, image orientation and size of characters; the final image is then printed using printer (16) on a substrate (18) presenting a release surface (20). An image-removing web (22) is then applied over the printed image, causing the printed image to adhere to the web (22). The web (22) is then stripped from the substrate (18) and can be applied to any selected support surface.