A How to question for Decals

[davyou5]

Hello all,

I do have a question in mind, Since I have modeled, I have never really learned how to porperly place decals, I know this much though, if you keep the place wet where you are going to place a decal you can position it right, but what is a proper tool to use to move them around? I have used exact-o knives and well you can guess where that leads . And since I have messed up my last model, I really began thinking about it, would a Cotton Swab be better for moving and positioning the decal? Any suggestions will be helpful .

David.

[JamesW]

I just use my fingers, but it has to be wet enough or it won't move, and with too much force it'll tear.

[elan]

I use a rounded off toothpick to move them around. Grimreaper is right, the key is to keep them wet until you get them in position, then I used the corner of a paper towel to wick away the excess water.

[Doughnut]

I agree with the "keeping them wet" comment. I use a toothpick with a small wad (I think that's a technical measurement) of Funtac on the end, so it grips, but does not scratch the decal.

[Scale-Master]

I use a flat chisel type paint brush, about ¼ inch wide by 3/8 of an inch long, and a #2 round brush. Both are relegated to decal use only.

Never been used for paint and they have lasted well, one has been is service for about 30 years, the other well over 10.

Q-tips are also great tools for decaling. Keep the surface wet while positioning, and paper towels work well too.

[Ddms]

Round colored "party" toothpicks. They don't have splinters like the cheap kind.