DECALS

[eddiesolo]

This is a new area into modelling that I wanted to try, as John Rixon pointed out many aftermarket decals can be really good quality while others are just rubbish. I was also less than pleased in paying £7 for a set of Tamiya 1/35-1/16 decals for just two helmet decals. I sold the 1/35 set and managed to get shut of the other 1/16 set-this got me thinking of having a crack at my own. I know that maybe some of you have used decal paper and had mixed results.


So, here is my first set printed out. I used clear decal paper in my inkjet printer with it set to transparency. The quality looks okay, the helmet decals are 2mm in length.

 

[yak face]

They look amazing Si ! am i right in thinking that the inkjet doesnt do white and you have to either use a white decal base or white paint under the decal ?

 

[eddiesolo]

I think you are right there Tony, I have printed white so will see how this look.

 

[stona]

Another problem is the saturation. Some colours, like yellow, look okay on the sheet but are nowhere near dense enough when put onto a model, they are almost transparent,.


I've had good luck doing markings like black RAF serials, less with, say, grey code letters.


Cheers


Steve

 

[monica]

they look real good Si,I do like them,some think that would be very handy to have and be able to do,like your idea of making them, :D

 

[eddiesolo]

I'll give they a try, they have had two coats of lacquer, so will see how they dry.


Thanks guys for the tips and hints,

 

[eddiesolo]

Righto, first proper test after three coats of matt lacquer. 


First thing is yes...either paint white under the decal or use white decal paper. Quality, well I got no bleed and the lacquer has had no effect so well pleased so far. With a bit of tweaking I may get this to work.


Here are some tests on an old 1/16 T-34.

 

[stona]

They look great!

 

[John Rixon]

Well if this is your first try, it looks really promising indeed!

 

[monica]

real nice Si,I would be happy with them,very good 1st try,well done, :D

 

[eddiesolo]

Thanks guys, the quality is superb and I was rather surprised myself.

 

[flyjoe180]

Nice work Si. This is something I would like to try.