How to Apply Transfers to a Model

Making models is a great hobby. Applying transfers or decals to a model can truly make it unique. Transfers can be tricky and to apply them successfully, you will have to have a steady hand. Once you learn how to apply your transfers, you can soon learn to make your models look even better than the original.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Model
• Transfers or decals
• Scissors or craft knife
• Water
• Shallow bowl
• Tweezers
• Brush
• Straight pin or fine needle

1. Gather your materials. Wash your hands well with soap and water to remove any oils that may keep the transfers from sticking. If you wish, you can wear surgical gloves or lint-free cotton gloves to apply your transfers to the model.
2. Choose the spot where you wish to apply the transfer on the model. It should be a glossy surface for best results.
3. Cut the transfer you wish to use from the sheet of decals. It's best if you cut it longer than you need. Snip off a narrow strip of the end of the top portion to make it easier to grasp the transfer when it's wet.
4. Fill the shallow bowl about ½ full with lukewarm water. Dip the decal in the water with the tweezers. The decal should curl at first, and then begin to uncurl. As soon as it straightens, pull it from the water.
5. Put a little bit of water on the model where you intend to place the transfer. Pull the backing paper off one end of the transfer. Carefully slide the transfer on to the model. It should float off the backing paper and on to the model.
6. Smooth out any wrinkles. If it is a larger transfer and you have a bubble, you can pop the bubble with a small straight pin or needle. When the decal is flat, absorb the excess moisture with a small brush.
7. Let the transfer dry completely. Continue adding transfers to the rest of the model.