Techniques To Apply Decals To Ship Model Kits

As scale modelers come to the finish point of building ship model kits, they often have a small number of choices to make – do they go for a polished finish, or a more weathered look? Do they keep the traditional color scheme, or go for something more artistic and original? And do they make use of the provided decals, paint their own designs, or think about keeping it clean?

Regardless of whatsoever you wish to go with, if you are more of a traditionalist, and an array of decals is provided with the scale model kit, possibilities are you will mull over making use of them. And for a good reason: Decals give a very nice touch of color, detail, and authenticity to the finished model, which is particularly essential for almost every model.

However, prior to you make a decision to apply a decal to your scale model, you will need to have the workplace cleared and the entire basic tools on hand. The following is a list of some of the essentials tools that you will probably need to apply decals to the model ship:

• Klear or varnish
• Dishwashing soap or liquid
• Cutting mat
• Paper towels
• Lint free cloth
• Tweezers
• Small paint brushes (two pieces)
• Hobby knife
• Sharp pair of scissors (preferably small)
• Decal solutions (one for under the decal and one for on top once it has been applied)
• Bowl of water
• Cutting mat
• Scale model you will apply decals to
• Sheet of decals

Preparation of the surface of the scale model

After the paint job is completely dry, you’ll need to apply one or two thin layers of Klear or varnish. It will help create a semi-gloss or full gloss finish prior to the decals will be applied. A flat or matt paint finish may be the most promising look for the scale model, but lessens the point of contact for the decal and can leave small pockets of air under the decal. Ensure that this varnish layer is totally dry prior to you follow the further steps to apply the decals.

Always keep in mind that a small amount of washing up liquid added to the water will help the decal to slide better!

After the entire decals you wanted to put on the scale model are applied, and if you have performed the task in the approved manner, they are supposed to now have the look of being painted on, giving the finished scale model a flawless look. From here, you can either leave the scale model as it is with a gloss finish, or you can even think about applying some of the weathering techniques for a personal touch.

As always, building ship model kits is as much about following instructions as it is about following the personal imagination of the scale modeler. Decals are a wonderful approach to enhance the overall looks of a scale model. So, consider adding the best decals you can find that will definitely make your scale model stand out!