Cleaning up the model after decals are on...

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Decaling
1

Hi all,

I’ve just finished putting all the decals on my current project. I used Micro Set and Micro Sol to help the decals snuggle down (and they did a great job!). This was all over two brushed coats of Future.

I read somewhere that after using setting solutions and/or solvents, one should wiped down the model to get rid of the excess before putting on a top coat of Future.

What should I use to wipe down my model? Water? How do I do it so that I don’t take the decals off?

Thanks in advance,

2

I use a water-moistened Q-tip. First, I make sure the decal has had at least a day to dry. Start at the center of the decal and lightly brush the Q-tip out toward the edges.

Haven’t had a decal lift yet using this method. In fact I use the Micro Sol/Set myself. One time I need to remove the decal, and trust me, no amount of water and rubbing would make it lift. I ended up having to sand it off and repaint!

stinger

3

Thanks, Stinger.

I’ll give that a shot tonight. I was really worried that I’d mess up the decals I spent five nights applying.

Regards,

4

For what it’s worth: I found an article from a 1999 issue of FSM, written by Paul Boyer, on applying decals. Paul recommends using setting solution to wipe up the excess solvent. I tried it, and it seemed to work.

There was no damage to the underlying coat of Future, and no problem with the top coat of Future that I put on after cleaning up.

Regards,