WORKSHOP:

Decal Application

 

How do you get those darn water transfer decals to lie down flat and stay there?  How do you get them to conform to a curved surface, like a Space Marine shoulder pad?  There are several methods out there, such as cutting slits into the decal or putting them on with watered down white glue.  There are also methods very similar to mine, but involve more steps or complications.  The method I’ll explain here is the simplest and quickest method I know that works every time.

 

 

 

 

STEP 1:

First you need to get some decal setting solution.  I bought Solvaset and have been very happy.  It was recommended as the best for thick decals, such as GW’s.  It might be too strong for thin professional decals, but it can be watered down to reduce the strength.  There are other brands available, such as microset.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 2:

Cut out your decal from the main sheet.  Trim it if necessary, and check that it fits in the location you intend to use.  I leave on a tab of the backing paper to make it easier to hold the decal.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 3:

Using a pair of tweezers (or anything else you want) to hold the decal, immerse it in clean water.  It takes about 20-30 seconds to loosen a GW decal.  Don’t worry if you keep it in too long.  I’ve used my method on decals that have floated free from the backing paper with no problems.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 4:

Moisten the destination on the model with water, and slide the decal off the backing paper onto the model.  I just carry a drop of water with the decal paper and rub it on the location before I slide off the decal.  Use a toothpick and gently slide the decal onto the model.  If it doesn’t come off easily, then soak it some more.  Use the toothpick or a wet paint brush to position the decal.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 5:

Wick the excess water away from the decal with a piece of paper towel.  Don’t blot the decal, and don’t worry if there is some water still on it.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 6:

Now apply the solvaset.  With GW decals you need to be generous.  Try not to push the decal out of place.  Wet the entire decal.  It helps if you can position the model so the solvaset stays on the decal. Don’t blot the excess; let it dry on the miniature.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 7:

The decal will begin to wrinkle up.  DO NOT touch the decal.  It is very soft now.  Let the solvaset dry.  If the decal is still wrinkled, add another dose of solvaset.  GW decals often take 2 – 4 applications to completely settle.

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 8:

You need to seal the miniature when it is COMPLETELY dry.  It takes the shine off the decal and gives a nice finish to the entire model.  My personal preference is Testors Dull Cote.

 

 

 

 

 

SETP 8:

You’re done. 

 

Some things to remember.  Ensure your paint has had time to completely dry before applying decals or finish spray.  Also, make sure you let the solvaset completely dry between applications.

 

Some people like to paint the decal location with a gloss clear coat before putting the decal in place, but I don’t and have never had a problem.

 

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