using decalfix

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Decaling
1

hi guys, i bought some Humbrol decalfix to help stick and seal the decal to my model aircraft. What steps should i take on apply this properly. IE do i put a coat on after decal has stuck etc etc…
thanks in advance…gordon j

2

Good question !! I’ve never used it either, and I just wanted to ask the same question !!!

Cheers,

Jürgen

3

Never used that particular brand. Does it have instructions on the container? If so I’d follow them.

I usually use MicroSol. Get the decal in position, brush on MicroSol, watch the decal wrinkle horribly, try to ignore that (they do straighten back out), and do NOT touch it for an hour or so. If it still hasn’t settled enough after it is dry another application of MicroSol will usually take it down some more.

4

thanks for that musicity. I had to get a magnify glass to read the instructions on the side of the bottle. It says “For use with decals to improve adhesion and help conceal carrier film. Apply thinly to the model before and after the decal is positioned to help soften and draw the decal to the model. Leave overnight to dry, prtotect from frost.”

so i take it you do apply after the decal is stuck to the model.

thanks again gordon J

5

The “Micro” line has two products, MicroSet and MicroSol. Typically MicroSet is used under the decal to improve adhesion and allow it to conform better. MicroSol is use on top of the decal to effectively “Melt” it over the surface detail. Apparently the Humbrol product does both with the same solution. Brush it over the area before the decal is placed and then brush it over the decal after it is placed.

6

thanks for that musicity, just what i needed to know…Do u still put the decal on wet once removed from water, or let it dry after removing??

regards gordon j

7

Put it on wet, just as you normally would.

8

That sounds exactly like Model Masters decal fix… it is a softener and the first coat dries glossy so I imagine that is what helps it lie down flat, then you coat it on top of the decal so I guess it softens it too… and yeah the few times I used it way back when I put the decal on wet…

9

thanks for all ur replies guys :wink:

gordon J

PS what about when its dry, is there any reidue to clean off. or do i need to be carefull when sticking it.