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Making Custom Decals

Step 2b: Final Test Print

Following the separation of the master image into its component color images, I test print the decal image on standard laser paper to verify that the alignment and register of the images is correct.

Basically, each component image is imbedded into a word document on a separate page from the others. Setting the margins on all pages to the same values causes the images to align so that each will perfectly overlay the others as they print on the ALPS printer. I print the pages, one at a time, until the full image is printed.

Only when the register and details in this final print are satisfactory to me do I move on to the next step. Otherwise, I return to Step 1 and correct whatever problems I find.

Step 3: Print on Decal Paper

This step is a repeat of the test print previously made, only this time it is done on real decal paper.

The decal paper stock I get comes in 8½ by 11 inch sheets. To conserve paper, I cut these in half and print decals on the half pages (5½ by 8½ inches).

Step 4: Clear Coat the Decals

The decals, once printed, are fairly durable, either from the laser printer or the ALPS printer. I don't like to take chances, though. I coat the decal images with SuperScale's SuperFilm to seal the images and make them that much more durable before using them on the model.

A quality gloss paint like Floquil Crystal Coat or (probably) Future floor wax would work as good. The trouble with these is that they do not react to setting solutions and act as a barrier to keep the setting pollutions away from the decal film. SuperFilm does not do this as it is decal film in a bottle.

I brush paint the SuperFilm over the decals and clean my brush using Solv-a-set. SuperFilm dries to almost nothing, so I do not worry about being too thick or leaving brush strokes when applying it. No matter how heavy I apply it, I never have troubles with it leaving any detectable stroke marks on the decals.

Step 5: Apply the Decals to the Model

I use the custom printed decals just like any store bought decals. I use Solv-a-set as a setting solution and have no problems with applying them to the models.