Waterslide decals

[Ashley jenkins]

Hi there!

I'm new to the group and a beginner in the modelling world.
I’ve designed some waterslide decals for a scratch build project I’m working on, but I’m not sure what lacquer or sealer to use once I’ve printed them off. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance

[Mr Bowcat]

I can't help with an answer, but welcome to the forum.

[colin m]

Hi there!

I'm new to the group and a beginner in the modelling world.
I’ve designed some waterslide decals for a scratch build project I’m working on, but I’m not sure what lacquer or sealer to use once I’ve printed them off. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance

I've done this just the once, it wasn't a great success. I could only suggest, creating a some test decals and trying a couple of different clear coats to see which works best.

[PaulTRose]

I take it you have used correct decal paper?

I used to give a light spray over with acylic varnish from a rattle can then cut out at close to the edge if the decal as possible

Its still a bit hit and miss of a process though

And welcome.... Whats the project you are working on?

[Ashley jenkins]

I had many a Tamiya motocross model kits as kid but just built them and played with them, which obviously ruined them.
I rode motocross myself and decided to build a replica model of my child hood hero which I wasn’t capable of doing as a kid. It’s been something I’ve picked up here and there over the last two years, so now I want to complete it,
I had the graphic designer at my place of work do the decals for me so I just need them printing off

[simontie]

Hi & welcome
i have done a few for old kits as mentioned spray a couple of very thin coats of clear lacquer on to the printed sheet once its fully dried and personally i leave them over night, cut them out and soak in warm water I also apply water to the area the decal is destined for, once you have it in place dry of around the area with kitchen towelling or if there small a cotton buds draw out the moisture quite well and also ideal for pushing in to tight places
decal softeners help to, and if tequired a hair drier on low heat ……
depending on the model and required finish gloss or matt clear coat once your confident its fully dried and apply a few coats
hope this helps

[Jim R]

Welcome to the forum.
I assume you are using an inkjet printer and not a laser printer. The ink is not waterproof so needs sealing as the previous posts suggest. Paul's advice to cut close is good, When getting the decal off the backing sheet the aim is to avoid getting the top surface wet. Lay a piece of blotting paper or doubled up kitchen roll on the bench and wet it. Lay the decal face up on the paper. The damp paper will release the decal without getting the surface wet so there is less chance of smudging the image. As Simon says a cotton bud is useful for wicking out the water and settling the decal down.