What to do with decals that curl or break on propellers

General Discussion
1

I am working on finishing a Hobby Boss “Easy Build” P-47 Thunderbolt in 1/48 scale. The propeller is 4 bladed. I had added three decals to each of the three propeller blades. Then, while adding the fourth decal to the last blade, the decal folded over; I was unable to fix it; it stuck to my finger when I was trying to fix it; so decided to remove the other three decals. Very frustrated! Since the prop wouldn’t look correct with one of the prop decals missing, I removed the other three. What do you guys do in this situation?

2

Usually try to locate another set from another P-47 Thunderbolt kit, or print my own. However, there’s nothing wrong with leaving them off. I doubt the decals on props lasted long in theater, IMO.

Gary

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Yup, I’d find something in my decal spares bin. There are also aftermarket decals of propeller markings available for purchase.

4

Thanks, everyone. I appreciate your responses. Since the models are only for my enjoyment, nobody is going to know the difference…except me! It just aggravated me that this occurred. I was going to leave them off; but I may see if I have some similars in my spare decals. By the way, I’m new to the forum!

5

I have seen others comment “print my own” regarding decals. Are there blank decal sheets you can purchase aftermarket on which to print graphics?

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Now you know why I hate the decaling stage of a build and I agree with the previous responses about going through either your other P-47 kits or your “Spare Decals” to find a suitable replacement. Good Luck with your search.

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@MarineGen3 This is what I have used to print my own decals. This one works with inkjet printers, but I believe they also make paper to use in laser printers.

https://www.hobbylinc.com/testors-decal-paper-clear-hobby-simulator-accessory-9201

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@jbw857 On rare occasion, I have been able to dip my finger in water to unfurl such a decal. Probably a lot of luck when I’ve been able to unfurl it, though.

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9

Thanks for the link!

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10

Prop decals are very difficult. I make my own. One way is to take Tamiya Tape and isolate a thin band at the appropriate place and paint it in by hand. If I’m lazy, I’ll take some paint (usually yellow or orange), put it in a very thin cup and dip the prop tip into it - might not be perfectly accurate but it looks just fine.

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a man with a beard is pointing up at the sky

I have also done the dip method…

12

I believe that the OP is talking about the manufacturer’s logo and stenciling on the prop blades, and not tip decals, which are not common for WWII aircraft models.

13

To the OP, another option, depending how big the decal was, is to leave all the others on and just weather the heck out of the props and the area where the decal is missing from. Give it a used, beaten up look on the blades.