applying decals..

[Guest]

hey guys im just ordering some more paints and stuff from john. i also want to order some other stuff i will need, so what will i need to apply my decals?

do i need to varnish the model first? can you recommend one?

i then apply micro set to the area i want the decal? am i correct?

then would i need to apply a matt varnish? can you recommend one?

will i need anything else ?

cheers

shane

[Guest]

Shane not sure if you are in enamel or acrylic.

I use Vallejo & this is my technique. I suspect there are many more.

I apply Vallejo gloss varnish to the finished paint surface making sure you get a good covering. Last model I applied a quick coat then another to give a good glaze.

Decals. Depends a lot on the decals. Some are more fragile. I steep in water then apply the decal to the gloss surface. If it starts to dry yet I need to slightly move I re wet with water.

If the decal needs is around a panel line or part slightly raised from the surface I use Micro Sol over all of the decal. But do not try & manipulate when wetted with micro sol as it is likely to disintergrate. It will usually go krinkly just leave do not try & flatten. It will dry out flat & to the shape under it. If not apply another coat of Micro Sol.

If I have trouble moving the decal I may resort to Micro Set but normally I just use water. If you have silvering gently prick the surface & apply Micro Sol. You may have to repeat & hope they then disappear.

Then I Varnish using Vallejo, Gloss Satin or Matt as required.

My way.

Laurie

[HAWKERHUNTER]

Hi Shane

I use the Humbrol enamel paints so just use their varnish. Use a gloss varnish to put the decals onto dont use matt. YOu will also

need some micro sol. THe Micro sol and micro set is best used as a two part process. One you apply to the area before placing the decal on and then once you have positioned it you apply the other solution that softens the decal allowing it to sink into all the recesses giving it the painted on look. Word of caution, once you have applied the second solution dont try and move the decal and dont be worried when you see it all start to bubble. This is perfectly normal and they will dry flat.

Steve

We must have posted at the same time Laurie LOL

[Guest]

thanks both for your help, Laurie i am using vallejo too so i will use your method..

cheers for the tips too

cheers shane

[Guest]

Another tip Shane. I carefully move the decal still on the backing to the very edge of the backing using my finger.

Then I position the edge right on the spot it needs to be on the model surface. Then with a finger on the edge of the decal with the backing near flat to the the plastic surface I pull the backing away not moving the decal at all. I have found it then sits neatly with very little repositioning needed and little distress to the decal especially if it is a fragile type.

Laurie

Just add that as Steve has shown there are differing ways. So experiment as Steve uses Micro Set try that as well.

[Ian M]

Apart from what has just been posted, I often use a fine pointed soft brush to nudge the decal around with. Also the "paste" left on the backing is a great thing to use as a slide coat so that the decal can be moved easily. Once the Decal is down and treated and 100% dry, you might need to wipe over the decal and the surrounding area with a soft damp cloth. This will remove any residues from the application process.

Oh just one more thing. Dont use cold water for the decals. I normally have a bottle at room temp, others use LUKE WARM water. Cold water will make the decal brittle, warm water will soften it.

Ian M

[Guest]

thanks again everyone

such a great forum this is with very detailed help!

cheers

shane

[aaron]

I seal decals with another coat of gloss which also acts as a good base for washes.

Good luck.

[stona]

I wet a decal for about 15 seconds in warm water then lay it,decal up,on a piece of glass and leave it until the decal is ready to slide.

Apply on a gloss coat wetted with microset. I move the decal into position with a cocktail stick.

Leave it to dry for an hour or two and then apply microsol. After an hour or so I'll repeat this application,as many times as it takes,until the thing submits.

Finally I seal the decals in with another coat of gloss before weathering etc.

Cheers

Steve

[Guest]

Thanks again people, most helpful

Shane

[Guest]

Has any one used Vallejo Decal Medium & Decal Fix? Interesting to know the results. They are a very progressive company with normally well thought out products.

Laurie

[Guest]

Laurie, email then telling them how great there products are and you wish to try there decal medium and fix, I'm sure they could send you out some samples ,

Shane