How To? - Flat decal over round airplane nose

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Decaling
1

I’m by no means an pro modeler but am building a 1/90 DC-3 and one of the decaling steps is to use a decal for the semi-sphere aircraft nose as illustrated below. Is this actually do-able to get a waterslide decal to go over an aircraft nose without major wrinkling? Any tips would be appreciated. I’ve watched lots of decal videos but this seems like a really challege to look good. Should I paint the nose instead?

Thanks!

2

Yes, it is doable, with great tender care. Make the cuts carefully and use setting solution during application. While still wet, apply decal solvent. Prop up the aircraft so it sets vertical until dry. Do not touch the decal while the solvent dries. Usually you will require a second coat. You can gingerly touch with a q-tip on that second coat.

3

I find it easier to mask and spray the area. If you go the decal route then I suggest to use Solvaset, the stuff never fails.

4

Thanks guys. I decided to hand paint the nose. These decals aren’t the greatest quality and I’m just not confident I could pull it off.

5

[Y]

6

Hi;

Although I did those fussy little nose decals years ago I soon quit decaling and went for paint. NOT SORRY !

7

I would paint #16, then take the other pieces and sort of fudge them around to fit