How to Custom Decal a Model

A modeler enters into a world of miniaturized realism when he builds, displays and operates a replica of a car, boat or airplane. The final touch in bringing a model to life is the proper set of decals.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Pens Or Cotton Swab
• Needles
• Eyebrow Tweezers
• Hobby Paintbrushes
• Airplane Glue
• Single-edged Razor Blades
• Superglue
• Artist's Brushes
• Dremel Rotary Tools
• Scale Auto Enthusiast Subscription
• Hobby Paints
• Modeler's Tool Kits
• Miniature Decals
• Razor Saw Sets
• Razor Plane Sets
• Modeler's Tools And Supplies
• Airbrush Kits
• jeweler's Phillips-head screwdriver
• R/C Modeling Construction & Operating Publications
• Model Aviation Subscription
• Jeweler's Screwdrivers
• Tweezer-nose Pliers
• Model Kits
• Nut Drivers
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• Slotted Screwdrivers

Choosing Decals

1. Go for the race car look - choose a set of decals so your Ford Taurus will look like Dale Jarrett's championship winner.

2. Use decals on sports car and dragster models as well.

3. Try for the classic car appearance - the '57 Thunderbird or one of the venerable Corvettes.

4. Reach further back and trim out a model of a 1928 Ford 3-Window Coupe.

5. Enhance the models of hard-working trucks - fire engines, ambulances, tow trucks, 18-wheelers - with decals.

6. Mimic the elegant trim and paint of classic ocean liners through the use of decals.

7. Look for special decals and striping to finish off models of sailing ships with their brass trim.

8. Remember, there's no substitute for decals in completing the miniature replica look of a warship. Navy vessels from around the world are identified by numbers.

9. Trim out historical navy ship models in camouflage decals. Go for accuracy when choosing and applying decals.

10. Apply decals to military aircraft models that are relevant to a specific event. Aircraft used during the great D-Day landing at Normandy were identified by three white stripes around the fuselage and wings.

11. Choose "nose art" - especially for World War II-era aircraft models.

12. Remember that modern jet fighters and other military aircraft are normally painted in low-visibility, blue-gray with trim and identifying numbers in a darker shade.

13. Get dramatic with models of the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds or U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Both air demonstration teams have their aircraft painted and trimmed in vibrant colors.

Applying Decals

1. Wait until the model's paint finish has dried a full 24 hours before applying decals.

2. Start by cleaning the area on your model where the decal is to be applied. Dish detergent or rubbing alcohol should work nicely.

3. Soak a water-slide decal until it can be moved with a very gentle touch.

4. Plan carefully the point of application - a water-slide decal can only be moved a few millimeters.

5. Rub the decal gently with a rounded pen end while it's moist to remove bubbles.

6. Use a needle point to release air from bubbles produced as the decal dries and sets, and then seal with clear lacquer.

7. Try soaking a self-adhesive decal in soapy water before application. The solution will lubricate the surface sufficiently to allow you to position the decal, but the decal should still adhere after it dries.

8. Seal dry-transfer decals with a clear-coat paint.

9. Hide the edge of decals on tires by applying a coat of clear gloss paint to the tire first, letting it dry, and then applying the decal. Next, apply a second coat of clear gloss over the decal and the rest of the tire.

Tips & Warnings

• Some hobbyists suggest lightly misting the area of decal application with glass cleaner, applying the decal, and then seating and positioning. Use this technique only after experimenting on your model with a piece of scrap plastic.