I have a few types of decal solvent, not sure which is the best or if they are all compatible or if it even matters. My main question is when applying a decal to in inside angle or curve how can I prevent the decal solvent from pulling up the drying decal from the position it needs to be in and even distorting it?
Similarly, what’s the best way to manage a decal to settle into a recessed seam or rivet holes? Right now they seem to jump over them and dry, forcing me to cut the delicate decal and applying more solvent then thinned black paint or pastel to hide any errors. Helpful ideas welcome. Thx.
Well, mate…I probably do it wrong…but it works for me.
I sometimes place the decal, tamp it dry, pressing the soft cloth into the details…which often presses the decals into panel lines…then I hit it with Mr Mark Softer or Micro Set/Sol solutions.
I use that for thicker decals like Tamiya.
For thinner decals like Cartograph or Aeroscale, I pretty much use the Micro Set and Micro Sol system - and that usually suffices. Sometimes you just have to prick the bubbles or panel lines - sometimes that means color matching and touch up with a fine brush.
I use setting solution first, and let it dry. Then, if further work is needed, resort to the solvent. Usually the setting solution holds it in place well enough that it does not move after applying the solvent.
I use Walthers Solvaset and never have to force a decal into panel lines and recesses. I may hve to apply it twice on the toughest decals, but I have never had it not settle down.
Mine will usually stay in place on compound curves if I roll a wet Q-Tip over it. Even after I’ve rolled it, if it’s out of place I can still nudge it a bit to get it right. Then if there’s a seam or whatnot under it I can brush on a little Solvaset to get it to lay down.
What kit are you working on? Maybe the kit’s decals are crappy?
I also use Walther’s Solvaset, quite strong stuff, seems to settle the nastiest decals, and I don’t have a problem with it. I use it as a last resort when Micro Sol won’t do it. As Jester says, may take a couple of applications, but it works.
I usually put a bit of microset down first, then the decal and push the decal down with a paper towel to help settle it into the panel lines, then hit it with microset again. If that doesn’t work, i try micro sol. and if necessary score the decal with a knife and use the microsol again. I don’t use the Solvaset on really thin decals without testing first - I’ve had it literally melt really thin (Eduard) decals.