I figured decals are decals, and the only reason you might go to aftermarket is if the symbols for the exact aircraft you’re building isn’t included with the kit; however, now I’m seeing people talking about how shoddy standard decals are. I’m building a Tamiya aircraft kit, and I’d like the best possible finished look…are Tamiya decals decent? What would decals from Cutting Edge offer over the standard ones?
Additionally, is there a guide somewhere to decaling…I’m not sure whether weathering like washes is done before or after decals are put on.
Tamiya decals are a mixed bag. Some of their newer kit decals aren’t bad, but some of the older releases decals are real bad. Most kit decals are thicker than aftermarket decals so they are easier to handle for the novice or average modeler, but usually they don’t conform to detail as well and some react poorly to setting solutions. AM decals from sources like Cutting Edge, Aeromaster, EagleStrike, etal, are thinner, usually more opaque, and more accurate most of the time. But they are a little more difficult to use since they tend to be more fragile than kit decals. Decals should always be applied over a gloss finish to avoid silvering. Weathering is usually done after decals are applied, but be careful with washes over decals. If the decal isn’t sealed properly the wash can migrate under the decal and really look a mess.
Sorry, I am getting into this late, but I use a lot of both manufacturer and aftermarket decals (including Cutting Edge) so here’s my 2 cents worth. I agree with Rick that the AM decals are usually thinner and with less carrier film. I used Cutting Edge decals on a P-39 I built as they had the set that represented the aircraft I was building. I often mix and match decals (stencils, unique markings, etc). One word of advice, if you mix and match, use one set for the aircraft roundals, ID letters, etc. There are times when colors don’t quite match up.
So my long winded answer boils down to this: go ahead and use the set that you want, but prep the surface carefully (again, as Rick recommended - ‘Future’ is your friend!).
more of my [2c] …Caveat Emptor (spelling) but, let the buyer beware…in buying any kit or AM stuff…
most kits have great decals…some do not…
SuperScale, Cutting Edge, Three Guys, Aeromaster decals…etc…etc…etc… usually, like Rick said, are thinner and are a little more custom for what the modeller is looking for…(aside from my own screw ups)…i’ve never had a problem with them laying down nicely …go for it.
…it’s all in the application of said water soluble transfer and (if you choose) the use of the decal sols and sets of which there are a few…
weathering…more [2c]…would be after decals as the markings on the real thing are subject to the wear and tear as is their host…
most of the collection of FSM “How To…” books give great step by step instructions on decalling and weathering…
good luck to ya bbaerst…