Decal printing and application

Decal printing – an explanatory note

Due to the necessarily absorbent and open structure of decal paper, dimensions can vary during production due to differences in moisture and temperature. In addition there can be some stretch of the paper during the production process for the same reasons. Both these factors can contribute to register problems with cockade centres and outlined letters. In order to give you the best results we have opted to provide the cockade centres separately.

Decal Application

We don’t believe general instructions are necessary as these decals are intended for the experienced modeller, but a few specifics should be mentioned:
  • ·          Always apply to a smooth surface; a gloss finish is best for this. Decals will not adhere well to a matt surface and the microscopically rough texture will trap minute air bubbles, leading to “silvering”.
  • ·          Our decals are designed to adhere well without using setting solutions. Some modellers use Micro Sol as a wetting agent and this works OK, as does a minute quantity of dishwashing liquid in the water used to loosen the decal. Some setting solutions can be aggressive in action and we do not recommend their use. Mr Decal Softner and Champs, in particular, are intended to be used on thick decals and will probably damage the thin and flexible coatings and inks used by Fantasy Printshop. Micro Set is milder and we have not had any reports of problems but can give no guarantee on either its safety or effectiveness. For compound curves and sharp edges, the use of a hair dryer to heat the decal once in place can be very effective, but please exercise caution – plastic has a low melting point!
  • ·          Use clean warm water and do not soak the individual items for more than 5 seconds or so. The aim is to wet the highly absorbent backing paper to loosen the decal. Prolonged soaking will dissolve and disperse the glue and the decal will not adhere.
  • ·          After positioning the decal, press it down firmly with a piece of absorbent paper kitchen towel.
  • ·          Where “handed” decals are provided they are marked Right and Left from the pilot’s point of view.
  • ·          When applying overlays, this is best done when the first decal is dry but there is no need to overcoat it with varnish before applying the second item.