Applying our Decals

HOW TO APPLY DRAW DECALS
Instructions en Espanol HERE
Instructions in Francais HERE
Instructions in German HERE

• Our Decals are Divided into Three Types: Digital Silk, Laser and ALPS.  Some sets contain two different types of decals, while others contain just one.  All of our decals are printed on the same high quality decal paper, and they apply just like any other thin-filmed decal. 

• Digital Silk decals are extremely durable and do not easily scratch.  They do not generally need to be clear coated prior to use.

• We STRONGLY recommend clear coating the Laser and ALPS printed decals before applying.  The clear coat prevents scratching the ALPS decals and prevents the toner from debonding from the Laser decals.  We recommend using a very light coat of Future or Micro Scale Scale Liquid Decal Film applied with a q-tip swab to coat the decals.

• Use care when applying as the decal film is extremely thin.  DO NOT float the decal off of the paper, as it will fold over itself and become unusable.  Rather, soak the decal in tepid water for about 5 seconds then remove it and allow it to sit for 45 seconds before trying to slide it off of the backing paper.

• The ALPS decals are more "soft" than a regularly silk-screened decals.  While they will stand up to normal handling, they will easily scratch.   The Laser decals will not stand much flexing which results in the toner debonding from the decal paper.   Use care to ensure you do not damage your decal.

• Digital Silk decals are tough and durable, but do not like to bend around corners.  An easy solution is to soak the decal in hot water.  This softens the ink and allows the decal to conform around tails and over uneven surfaces.

• Clear coating your model after applying these decals is a must!  I repeat this is a must.  The clear coat will seal your decal and prevent it from becoming damaged.  DO NOT BRUSH ON ANY CLEAR LACQUER over these decals, as they will instantly dissolve.  Airbrush lacquers only in very light, misting coats.  Another method to clear coat the decal is to use Future acrylic floor polish.  Yes, you heard right, see for yourself in everything you ever wanted to know about Future including where to find it outside of the US.

• "Normal" decal setting solutions can be used with these decals.  I recommend using Microscale's Micro Set and Micro Sol solutions.  Brush the Micro Set directly on your model before sliding the decal into position.  After you slide the decal into position and soak up the excess liquid, apply a thin coat of Micro Sol (the solvent) the soften the decal.  After this coat dries and you are certain the decal is in its final position, apply a second heavier coat of Micro Sol.  For really stubborn areas where the decal is not adhering to the model, you may apply a very light coat of Walthers Solvaset; use caution as this is a very strong solvent and will "liquidfy" the decal until it dries.  DO NOT touch the decal until it is dry!!

To summarize, here are my 10 steps to decaling successfully:
(After making sure all cat hair is removed)

1.  Cut out the decal with scissors, not a straight edge and razor knife.  Our decals are delicate and will easily scratch or flake..

"It's Really Quite Easy"