Vinyl wrapping has exploded in popularity over the last decade, transforming cars from simple transportation tools into rolling canvases of personal expression. Among the most eye-catching trends is the Itasha style—a vibrant, anime-inspired car culture from Japan that merges the worlds of fandom and automotive customization. But as this niche has expanded beyond anime, Western shows like Rick and Morty have carved out their own space in this growing subculture.

In this article, we’ll explore the intersection of Rick and Morty vinyl wrapping, breaking down why this cartoon sci-fi duo is perfect for Itasha-style designs, how to execute a themed wrap, and what it says about the future of car customization in pop culture.

Why Rick and Morty?

Since its debut in 2013, Rick and Morty has gained a cult following thanks to its dark humor, wild sci-fi themes, and unpredictable storytelling. It’s the kind of show that sticks with people. Fans aren’t just viewers—they’re often obsessive collectors, theorists, and creators. So it makes sense that many fans would want to showcase their devotion in bold, visual ways—like slapping Rick’s maniacal grin across the side of their vehicle.

But this show isn’t just popular—it’s visually dynamic. The bold colors, surreal backdrops, interdimensional creatures, and iconic characters lend themselves perfectly to wrap art. Whether it’s a psychedelic portal behind the garage door or Mr. Meeseeks peeking out from the rear quarter panel, the series’ artwork provides endless inspiration for vinyl designs.

The Itasha Connection

Itasha (痛車), which translates roughly to “painful car” in Japanese, is a term originally used to describe the embarrassment of driving a car decked out in anime characters. Over time, however, it’s become a badge of honor—a subculture celebrated for its commitment to blending pop art with street-ready design.

Originally rooted in anime and manga, Itasha culture has evolved to include characters from video games, Western cartoons, and even comic books. This evolution opened the door for Rick and Morty fans to jump on the trend. Western Itasha designs often include characters from Adventure Time, Spider-Man, My Little Pony, and yes—Rick and Morty.

The appeal? It’s all about standing out. In a sea of matte black Teslas and factory-finished sedans, nothing turns heads like a lime green Scion tC covered in swirling portals, floating eyeballs, and a burping, drunken scientist.

Creating a Rick and Morty-Themed Wrap

Creating a custom wrap isn’t as simple as slapping some decals on your car and calling it a day. A quality vinyl wrap—especially one with this much detail—requires planning, professional execution, and a deep understanding of the artwork.

Step 1: Concept and Layout

First, decide on your theme. Will it focus on a specific episode or character? Are you going for chaotic and colorful, or sleek and subtle? Some popular themes include:

  • Portal travel scenes with Rick dragging Morty through dimensions
  • Mr. Meeseeks chaos with multiple blue creatures all over the vehicle
  • Evil Morty with a darker, more sinister tone
  • The classic “Pickle Rick” meme, immortalized on your hood or roof

Once the theme is chosen, work with a graphic designer familiar with vehicle wrap templates. Every car shape is different, and proper scaling is essential. A good designer will make sure Rick’s face doesn’t end up awkwardly wrapped around a door handle.

Step 2: Licensing and Copyright (Quick Note)

If you’re designing a personal wrap for fun or for a fan car show, you’re generally safe under “fan art” use. However, if you plan to sell or mass-produce Rick and Morty wraps, you’ll need proper licensing from Adult Swim and Warner Bros. Custom fan art is one thing, but commercial use enters risky territory.

Step 3: Printing and Materials

Use high-quality vinyl like 3M 2080 or Avery Dennison Supreme Wrap film. These materials are durable, weather-resistant, and can conform to complex curves. A high-resolution print is crucial—Rick and Morty’s art style involves a lot of intricate linework and vibrant gradients. Cheap vinyl and low-res files will make your wrap look muddy and blurry.

You can choose between gloss, satin, or matte finishes depending on the look you’re going for. Gloss will give your wrap a comic book-like shine, while matte offers a more subtle, modern vibe.

Step 4: Installation

Unless you’re highly experienced with wraps, we strongly recommend professional installation. A poorly installed wrap will bubble, peel, or fail to adhere at curves and edges. Professionals ensure everything aligns perfectly, especially important when you’ve got characters’ faces and portals stretching across multiple panels.

Standout Design Ideas

Here are a few design approaches fans have used in the past that might spark your own ideas:

1. Full Car Portal Madness

The vehicle is engulfed in swirling green portals, with Rick and Morty leaping through them across the doors. Alien creatures and planets fill the background. This layout works great on hatchbacks and coupes where the side panels offer long canvas areas.

2. Pickle Rick Racing Theme

For performance-focused cars, turn Rick into a racing icon—“Pickle Rick Racing Team.” Use stylized logos, racing stripes with character overlays, and maybe a faux sponsor list with names like “Squanchy Performance” or “Birdperson Tires.”

3. Cosmic Sci-Fi Wrap

Go a little more subtle with a space-themed background: purple galaxies, spaceships, and cosmic dust, with Morty’s anxious face popping out from a nebula. Rick could be floating across the hood in a space suit. It’s understated (by comparison) and has more universal appeal.

4. Meeseeks Mayhem

If you want to go full chaos, fill your car with a horde of Mr. Meeseeks in various poses. Have them peeking out of vents, popping up behind the rearview mirror, or holding signs on your fenders. It’s comedic, creepy, and colorful all in one.

Why Fans Love It

Owning a Rick and Morty-themed vehicle isn’t just about flexing fandom. For many, it’s a form of rebellion against boring car design. Most modern cars look alike—sleek, minimal, and inoffensive. But when someone drives a wrap that screams, “Wubba Lubba Dub Dub,” they’re telling the world they’re not here to blend in.

Some fans use their cars as conversation starters at comic cons or wrap meets. Others use them to promote their businesses—food trucks, vape shops, or YouTube channels can gain attention fast with a themed vehicle. Some just want to make people laugh during their daily commute.

Whatever the reason, the passion is real. And unlike tattoos or collectibles that stay at home, a wrap goes with you everywhere—it becomes part of your lifestyle.

Maintaining Your Rick and Morty Wrap

Here are a few tips to keep your vinyl looking fresh:

  • Hand wash only: Avoid automated car washes, which can lift edges or scratch the film.
  • Ceramic coating for vinyl: This adds a protective layer against UV damage and grime.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure: Park in the shade or use a cover to prevent color fading over time.
  • Edge sealing: Some installers offer edge sealing tape or laminate layers to increase lifespan.

With proper care, a quality wrap can last 5-7 years, though designs that rely heavily on bright greens or purples may fade faster without protection.

The Future of Fandom and Wraps

As more people embrace vinyl wraps, we’re seeing a crossover of art, identity, and automotive culture like never before. Whether you’re into anime, comics, or animated sci-fi, your vehicle can now reflect your obsessions, values, and creativity.

And with AI design tools, custom illustration services, and accessible wrap shops popping up globally, fans no longer need to settle for off-the-shelf graphics. The Rick and Morty wrap trend is part of a larger movement—where cars become characters in your story, not just tools for transport.

So whether you’re gearing up for a convention, promoting a YouTube build series, or just want to bring a little interdimensional madness to your commute, a Rick and Morty wrap is more than just a mod—it’s a message.

In the words of Rick Sanchez himself:
“Sometimes science is more art than science. A lot of people don’t get that.”
But trust us, car fans do.