WATER SLIDE DECALS
Water slide or transfer decals are made up of the decal, a water-soluble adhesive, and backing paper. Upon immersion with water, the decal slides off the backing paper, allowing you to apply it to the surface of your scale model.
SURFACE PREPARATION
Once your final paint job is dry, you will need to apply a thin layer of varnish to create a gloss finish before you apply any decals. A matt or flat paint finish reduces the surface of contact for the decal and can leave small pockets of air beneath the decal. Make sure that the gloss varnish layer is completely dry before you follow the decal application steps.
HOW TO APPLY WATER SLIDE DECALS
- Cut out the decal from the sheet.
- Using the tweezers, pick up the decal and dip it in tepid water.
- Remove the decal together with backing paper from the water and place it on a paper towel to remove and drain any excess water.
- Use the paint brush to slide the decal off the backing paper on to the surface. Try to move the decal as little as possible pulling the backing sheet away from it.
- When you are satisfied with the position, press the paper towel on top of the decal to absorb excess water. It is possible to reposition the decal by dampening it with water and sliding the brush underneath it.
- Leave the decal to dry.
- To seal the decal completely, you can now apply a layer of varnish and allow it to dry.
DECAL SOLUTIONS
PaulusVictor decals are intended to stick well to the flat surface. If the surface has texture or if the decals need to fit over surface irregularities, then two part decal solutions could help. The first part is painted on to the surface. This makes it easier to slide the decal into the correct position and improves the adhesion of the decal. The second part is painted on top of the decal. This softens the decal and helps to make it conform to any irregularities in the surface. Once the second solution has been applied, the decal may appear to wrinkle, however, do not touch it at this stage because it will be extremely elastic and fragile. As it dries the wrinkles should disappear and the decal will shrink back on to the surface and cling fast to any surface details.
Decal solutions vary in strength between different manufacturers. It is advisable to experiment a little when you use these solutions for the first time, or change brands.
Please contact us if you have any requests or questions.