How to Apply Model Car Decals

Decals on the truck door and bed adds detail to this model.

Model making requires an application of art for presentation to go with the technical techniques required for a quality build. Adding detail to a model is a large part of that art. Unfortunately, when dealing with extremely small lettering or symbols, the details can be difficult to create. As an alternative to painting many of these tiniest of details, many modelers use water-transfer decals instead. Water-transfer decals are printed designs that can provide everything from unit patches for military models to company logos for model trucks and planes in full color. Made for quick application, using a decal can help to add that extra level of detail your model needs, increasing model realism without stretching your painting ability beyond its limits.

Things You'll Need

• Water-transfer decal sheet
• Scissors
• Bowl
• Water
• Tweezers
• Cotton swab
• Clear-tip applicator

Instructions

1. Cut the decal that you're applying to the model from the decal sheet. Make the cut as close to the decal as possible while leaving a slight border around the sheet large enough to hold with a pair of tweezers.

2. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water. Place the decal paper into the water, decal side face-up. Allow the decal paper to soak in the water for one minute, until it becomes saturated. Test the decal for readiness by lightly touching it. If the decal slides on the paper backing when touched, it's ready to be applied to the model.

3. Remove the decal paper from the water and place it, decal face-up, onto the model so that it rests where you intend to have it positioned.

4. Place the cotton swab onto the face of the decal and grasp the edge of the paper backing beneath the decal with the tweezers. Slide the paper carefully out from beneath the decal along the model surface using the tweezers while holding the decal in place with the swab. Be careful not to scrape the surface of the model with the tweezers .

5. Move the decal as necessary on the surface of the model using the swab. The decal is fragile, so use small motions to prevent tearing. Dab the surface of the decal with the swab tip to remove excess water when positioned in place. Remove any water from around the decal with the swab as well. Wait three hours to allow the decal to set.

6. Spray the decal with a layer of clear spray paint to prevent it from peeling or moving, as well as to prevent damage from due to model handling.

References

• JBOT Decals: How to Use These Decals
• Fineclonier: Minifig Decal Application
• Model Makers Resource: Applying Decals

Resources

• The Model Makers Resource
• Fine Scale Modeler Magazine