What can I apply to model decals?

Hi folks,

As a result of the current lockdown, I have returned to making scale models, something I used to do when I was younger (!) One issue I have is applying decals. I would certainly appreciate any advice! What is the bust surfacing to apply to decals? Obviously, from using water alone, results in the decal not adhering to the plastic model. I tried nail varnish, bad idea, simply dissolves the decal. Any advice would be appreciated, as I’m relatively new (again) to the hobby. Thanks, Garry

Best to apply decals to a gloss coat. Paint model and then seal/varnish with a gloss coat, the smoother the finish the better to prevent ‘silvering’ (air trapped underneath decal) of the decal(s). Soak decal in warm water for 10 seconds and then remove and place aside until it moves then slide into place on model. There are numerous products (Humbrol Delcalfix, Micro Set/Sol, to help the decal settle and adhere to the contours of the model i.e. panel lines (YouTube is your friend, many tips/tutorials on there)…good luck and welcome back to this marvelous hobby :slight_smile:

^^^ solid advice

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I looked at Humbrol Decalfix online, ordered a bottle.

cheers

Garry

Hello and welcome to the forum. Familiarize yourself with the different forum sections for maximum benefit and enjoyment.

You will probably get better response if you post this in the Decalling section of the forum (as suggested by Tojo).

I initially used Decalfix too, but I have long since moved on to Micro Sol/Set and Mig Decal Fix/Set. Both can be easily gotten from t’internet since going to the local model/hobby shop is out of the question. Don’t know which side of the pond you are from so would suggest ebay/Amazon. If UK then Hannants or Jadlam is where I get my stuff from.

Thanks. I’m a bit of beginner, so I’ll see how I get on with the Humbrol Decalfix.

I’m trying various different kits. Just finished 1:400 Revell’S Titanic. Now Hasegawa’s Atlantis Space Shuttle / Hubble Space Telescope. Then I’ll take a shot at a couple of tanks. I’ll be in touch again, rest assured!

Thanks again

Garry

[Y]

Hi Garry! Welcome to the Forums! Glad to have you aboard.

All of that great info that you got above is only a sample of the info the members here can give. Look forward to seeing your work.

Jim [cptn]

Stay Safe.

Good advice above. That said…

That is not really true and shoudn’t be happening. If I am understanding the gist of your question, my guess is you might be soaking the decals way too long. Doing so will dissolve away the adhesive agent.

TurboSteve alluded to this in his reply above, and his advice is sound, as others have already said.

Welcome to the Forums!

As mentioned, it sounds as if perhaps you’re soaking your decals way too long. If it is the case that the glue is literally being soaked off the decal and causing them not to adhere to your model. Don’t leave the decal sitting at the bottom of a dish of water. Dip the decal and then place it on a hard surface to allow the water to saturate the backing paper.
If you are still having problems with adhesion (and some brands can be worse than others), you can try a number of things.

  • GSI Creos Mr Mark Setter - this is a decal setting agent which contains a mild adhesive which will help suck the decals down on the model’s surface
  • Mix up a very dilute solution of white glue and water. Apply this to the location where the decal is to be applied, then apply the decal.

Youtube is a great place to see things demonstrated so check some of the videos there on decalling models. It really helps to see it done before you do it yourself. I am a Microset and micro sol user when I do decals. Good luck

Hi,

yes, picking up a lot of tips and information from youtube. I used to make model kits as a youngster, was a long time ago! Actually impressed how far the hobby has come on, I mean, I find the paint, glue, brushes far superiour to what was available in the 70s - 80s. Also, additional paint wash types, to give effect of dirt, rust, lines, really makes a difference.

Garry

Ah the old days. Leave the decal in water until it floated free.

I dip in water for maybe 15 seconds.

Then I place it on a piece of copy paper. Watch the paper turn from light to dark (soaked).