When Do I Apply Decals...Before/After Clear Coat?

Modeling Subjects Autos
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Hello: I rarely build cars, but I have started a MPC Hemi Under Glass. When is it best to apply the decals? If I apply them after the clear coat, do I seal them with another coat of clear? And can I sand the clear that is now over the decals? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

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2

Gloss coat
Decals
Then a clear coat over the decals,flat or gloss depending on your build.

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3

You can sand the last coat, but that flattens the sheen, so you need another gloss coat.

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  1. Layer of glossy varnish only in the areas where the decal is applied
  2. Application of decals with softeners
  3. Layer of glossy varnish only in the areas where the decal is applied
  4. Layer of satin varnish on the entire model
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5

I have no problem glossing everything,planes and armor have lots of placards and markings,so I gloss the whole thing,for me it gives a nice uniform finish too.

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6

I usually go in this order:

  1. Gloss coat
  2. Decals
  3. Another Gloss coat (for weathering)
  4. Satin or Matt (for final weathering)
  5. Matt coat for the final.

The type of varnish I use after the decaling depends on what type of weathering I am doing afterwards.

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7

Good point about the satin coat for weathering!

Rob
Iwata Padawan