The Vato Rat was created by artist Craig Stecyk. Coming from the Santa Monica Dogtown "Z-Boy" surf-skate scene of the 1970's, Stecyk was surrounded by Hispanic gang culture and graffiti. At the time he was airbrushing a lot of Zephyr surfboards and blended that influence into his work. The Vato Rat was one of the many symbols he used to decorate surfboards and generally mark territory at local surf spots. In 1983 Stacy Peralta decided to bring the Vato Rat back as a Powell-Peralta graphic. They called it "Rat Bones" and it was used in advertising, on decks, stickers and T-shirts.

Originally Released: 1983

Artwork by: Craig Stecyk

Features:

• Powell Peralta embroidered patch
• 3.5" diameter with iron-on backing

Application

• Denim and cotton material provide the best base. Be careful of polyester.
• Put the item on a hard surface, like an ironing board. Iron it to create a nice, flat surface.
• Place the patch where you want it to be.
• Heat up the iron to it's hottest setting.
• Place a thin cloth over the patch. (This will protect the patch and any surrounding material).
• Place the iron over the patch and press down hard as possible for 15-30 seconds.
• Remove the iron and let patch cool.
• Check the patch by gently rubbing at the edge, trying to lift it. If it lifts, replace the thin material and iron again for 10- 15 seconds.
• To ensure a secure patch you can also sew around the edges.