i’m just a beginner ans starting on fighter planes. i would like to know if one can make his own decals using readily available materials preferably those found inside a house. and where can i get info/reference on squadron insignias, nose arts, etc.
I don’t know of any hay to make decals from household products but the are several different systems using computer printers out there. Information on unit markings can be found on the net. Use google or any search engine and look up the unit. Depending on what era you model will determine where to search for other information.
References for current units can be found at www.af.mil. It may take some time to find pic’s of exactly what your looking for but hang in there.
Lastly, you can write the unit concerned and ask the for information, when I was on duty we tried to answer all unclassified requests for information.
Good luck
Testors makes some stuff that you can buy at Wally World [xx(](aka Wal-Mart) for doing it on the computer. Dont know how good it is but they have it.
Some hobby shops sell blank decal paper or even white decal sheets that you can print onto. If you buy blank paper, you will probably have to buy some liquid decal film too, Microscale makes liquid decal film which is availible at most good hobby shops. Just brush some on, let it dry, make your artwork (printer or free hand) apply another coat or two and you have yourself some decals.
The liquid decal film is also useful if you get a kit with bad decals that fall appart when you try to apply them. Just brush a coat over the decal sheet and let it dry and the old decals should hold together. It has helped me save several sheets in the past.
hi ! welcome to the forums ! sorry if this is insulting to your modelling ability, but instead of making your own decals, perhaps you can settle for aftermarket decal sets ? less hassle too. have fun !! [:D]