Decals

[kenlholley]

I am trying to apply decals to acrylics and am having trouble with the decals showing. The edges are good, they cover with ca fine. The problem is the decal seems to not "seal" completely to the blank. It is always visible, especially on darker blanks. I let the decals dry at least a day before I even think of finishing them, but they still show. Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[wouldentu2?]

If I understand your problem correctly, the surface under the decal whether wood or plastic must be polished so it shines.

 

[woodyoureally]

I don't have a ton of experience with decals but I did a few around Christmas. I couldn't get them to set right either. Tried polishing the acrylic. Tried a few coats of CA to smooth the pores. Nothing made it set smooth. Did some Googling on model sites and found this. The decal set perfectly the first time I tried it.

Amazon.com: Micro Sol Setting Solution, 1 oz: Toys & Games

 

[Edward Cypher]

Micro Sol Setting Solution is also available here and is much cheaper. HobbyTown - Microscale Industries Micro Sol Decal Setting Solution, 1oz | Product Details

4 Dollars plus shipping unless you have a colpar hobby in your town.

 

[Pjohnson]

Are you using clear or white decals?

 

[kenlholley]

Clear. I ordered some Micro Sol. Gonna give it a try.

 

[TonyL]

I heard some use fingernail decals....there less or no transparent material.

 

[Justin H]

Setting solution is the key

The setting solution is the trick.

 

[kenlholley]

Got the setting solution today and it works great. Decal backing is almost completely invisible. Thanks so much for the information. You all are the best.

 

[Hal9000]

Hi all, this is my first post so here goes.
I use inkjet decal paper that needs to be sealed with acrylic lacquer. Will Micro Sol cure this problem if decals have been lacquered?

 

[Si90]

There are 2 version of the decal solution, Micro Set and Micro Sol. For best results you should use both although I don't know if it is as effective on acrylic as on a painted surface. You use one to prepare the surface so it goes on before the decal. The second goes on top of the decal. Be careful as it makes the decals very soft and easily damaged. On a painted surface once dry you cannot feel the decal, it becomes almost part of the paint and there is no silvering around the edges.

 

[kenlholley]

That is exactly what I do. I print the decals with an ink jet printer. After they dry I spray them with a clear laquer. after that dries, 24 hours is how long I wait, the decals are ready and the Micro Sol worked great. Best $4.00 I've spent in a long time.

 

[Hal9000]

That is exactly what I do. I print the decals with an ink jet printer. After they dry I spray them with a clear laquer. after that dries, 24 hours is how long I wait, the decals are ready and the Micro Sol worked great. Best $4.00 I've spent in a long time.

Thanks Ken, that's what I was hoping to hear.