How to Use Our Decals
To apply a waterslide decal:
- Cut apart the individual images from the sheet. Trim as close to the detail as you are comfortable doing for the best results.
- Dip the decal into lukewarm water for 15 seconds to 30 seconds.
- Take the decal from the water and see if the image will move or slide on the paper backing. If not, return to the water for a few more seconds. Using tweezers to handle can be very helpful.
- Once the decal will slide on the backing, put the decal and backing on a paper towel for a few seconds to remove the excess water.
- Then bring the decal to where on the model you want to apply it and slide the image from the paper backing onto the model. While wet, you can still move the image on the model a bit to position it just where you want it. If there are any air bubbles under the decal, gently push the bubble toward one of the edges of the decal with a wet Q-tip or edge of a paper towel to remove it.
- When the decal is in position, simply let it air dry and it will stay in.
Many hobby shops will sell various decal setting solutions that will help the decal conform to sharply curved surfaces. Please reference their instructions for best use. We suggest trying out the specific solution you wish to use on an unused decal from the same sheet applied to a piece of scrap plastic to make sure the solution will not react with the decal.
If desired, before using the decals, you can precoat them with a product like Micro Mark Liquid Decal Film or similar product.
If you wish to spray a clear coat over your decals after application, which is recommended, the clear paint you intend on using should be tested first using the same method. You may use a flat, semi-gloss, or gloss clear coat to give the desired effect.
Youtube is a great reference for videos on how to master the practice of applying decals.
