Saving old decals

[slownlow]

I’m building an old kit and the decals crumble in the water. I’ve heard of a product that can be applied to the sheet to prevent this. Does anyone know what it is and where it might be available?

[NOBLNG]

I think the stuff you want is Microcale liquid decal film. 

[magicmustang]

I just spray them with Testors clear gloss lacquer before cutting them out.

Edited October 4, 2024 by magicmustang

[Hi-Po]

When dealing with older decals, I have found that it can often be hit and miss when using MicroScale Liquid Decal Film.  Sometimes the liquid does its job and the decal is useable.  Other times, not so much, as the decal still falls apart when released from the backing paper.  I guess it depends on the age of the decals or maybe the manufacture or both, not sure.  I would find a decal on the sheet that will not be used and apply the liquid to it and see how it reacts before coating the whole sheet.

You can always clear coat the decals as magicmustang states in his post but do it in very thin coats as the paint will add thickness to the decals.  You will also have to cut out the decals very close to the design as the clear coats will cover the entire sheet.

[Horrorshow]

I have had good luck with the microscale, but there is no way of knowing what would have happened if I didn’t use it.

Also had some bad luck. This picture shows what it did to the silver on this decal.