How to Make Model Airplane Decals

It's fun to decorate model airplanes with water-slide decals. But sometimes it's hard to find images that you really like on commercially produced decal sheets. You can quickly and easily create your own decals from images that you truly like. All it takes is a little work on your PC and ink-jet or laser printer, and some water-slide decal paper. The paper is readily available at computer and stationery stores, as well as at some of the larger discount retail chain stores.

Things You'll Need

• Plain computer paper Decal paper appropriate for your ink-jet or laser printer Computer images Aerosol decal clear coat bonding spray Clear aerosol sealant spray Scissors

Instructions

1. Select or create the images that you want to use for your decals. You can use images that already exist in your PC, or you can download some that you like. If you have a scanner, you can use graphics and pictures from books or magazines.

2. Print the graphics out on plain computer paper. If you're satisfied with the results, load a sheet of decal paper facedown into your printer. Set the printer to use as little ink as possible, such as the "draft" setting. The colors will all run together if you use a coating of ink that is too heavy. Print the image onto the sheet of decal paper.

3. Remove the printed decal sheet from the printer and set it on a flat surface where it won't be disturbed. Allow it to dry for about 15 minutes so that the image will harden and resist smudging.

4. Lightly mist the entire decal sheet with aerosol decal clear coat bonding spray. Don't spray it heavily onto the printed image, because too much can dissolve the artwork right off the paper. Cover the decal sheet with a big box to keep dust from falling onto it. Dry the sheet overnight.

5. Cut the images from the decal sheet with scissors, trimming close to the designs. Soak a decal for about 30 seconds in a bowl of room temperature water. Test the decal to see if it slips easily around on the backing paper.

6. Remove the decal from the water and slide it into place on your model airplane. Smooth the decal gently to remove any wrinkles or air bubbles. Let it dry completely. Set and protect the decal with a coat of clear aerosol sealant spray and let it dry.