If you're trying to apply Nintendo DS skins for the first time, there a few things you should know that will save you a lot of time and trouble. This first thing you need to know is what exactly "skins" are. Skins for the Nintendo DS are vinyl decals that are cut to match the shape and size of the Nintendo DS, DS lite, or DSi console or they can also be silicon or gel based skins that slide over the handheld. The decal kits come in several pieces: the top, the bottom, the edges, the screen, and one each for the D-pad and buttons but silicon or gel based skins are a single piece usually.

Skins for the DS serve two different purposes: the decorative and the practical. On the decorative side, skins improve the look of your handheld console by allowing you to have a pre-designed or custom image. There are hundreds to thousands of designs already out there for you to choose from. On the practical side, skins or DS covers also protect your handheld from damage and scratches as well as dust or smudges. Gel or silicone based skins can also protect from fall damage.

The gel or silicone skins are really simple to put on, you just slide them over the console, but the vinyl decals can be a little tricky if you don't know what you're doing. I will outline how to put on Nintendo DS vinyl decals below.

You will need a few things to put your DS skin on properly: a couple rags or paper towels, some rubbing alcohol, and some common sense.

Step 1: Clean The Nintendo DS

Once you have the required materials the first thing you need to do is clean you handheld with a damp paper towel or rag and the rubbing alcohol. Make sure you get the inside and outside thoroughly, including the D-pad and buttons. You don't want any dust or debris under your skin because it can cause it to peel off later on. Dry it off after you're done.

Step 2: Apply The DS Skin

Once you have your DS clean, start with the top piece of the decal and remove the backing. Begin by lining up with the Nintendo Logo. Press down around the logo and spread out slowly pressing down with enough force the seal the edges. The next step is to put on the back skin by lining up with the hinges. Repeat the same process as the top. The edges of the DS are the next pieces to apply. Start with one edge and line it up. Seal the edge and press down sealing to the other edge. Repeat as many times as necessary for all the edges. 

Now it's time to put on the inside skins. Let's start with the piece that goes around the bottom screen. It's easiest to line up with the bottom of the screen and seal off the edge, repeating the process as before. For the top screen, it's the same as the bottom screen. Finally you must put on the decals over the D-pad and buttons. Take your time to align them properly as it can be a little tricky.

And that's it. You're done. I hope this guide was helpful and that you got your skin on right. There's a video below if you need more instruction.