Looking For Reccomendations For Decal Paper

[oldcarfan]

I'm looking for a better decal option than Micro Scale paper. I've used both the laser and the ink jet kind and had problems with the paper breaking up on application.

Backstory: A couple years ago I printed decals using Micro Scale laser paper. I found the decals to be brittle, even with the recommended clear coat. I made them work, but it was frustrating.

For my Datsun pickup box truck I tried decal paper made for coffee cups. This paper works well but is a little thick and kind of rubbery. Yesterday I made some more using using new Micro Scale paper and the decals broke into several pieces while being applied and peeled off when dry. I tried several techniques including hot, warm and cold water and none made a difference with or without Micro Set/Sol.

This a picture of the decals printed on white Micro Scale laser paper. They were put on and allowed to dry for a day. I went to check this morning and parts of them had peeled away and landed on the work bench. These were put on over white vinyl, but the ones on fresh smooth paint reacted the same.

 

Below are decals made using the coffee cup decal paper. They went on well and seem to have stuck with no problem. 

[Dave Van]

At one time decal paper was an easy find. Lots of good makers out there. Then this lady in FLA was able to get a patent on decal paper. Decal paper has been around forever, late 1800's IIRC. But she somehow got a patent and stopped almost all decal paper sellers in the USA. I have owned two decal companies and still print a few on demand. I am living of a stash of Deca-Fix paper......the best made for many years.  I know thi ain't much help.....but when my stash runs out I will be in the hunt too. Sorry

Tango Papa website says he still sells paper but I have not used it. 

[oldcarfan]

Thanks, I'll look at them. 

[Mike 1017]

I have used the Waterslide Koala No spray inkjet and laser, clear and white decal paper I am happy with the results using my HP Inkjet

Amazon.com: KOALA Waterslide Decal Paper INKJET CLEAR, No Spray Coating Water Slide Decal Paper for DIY Tumbler, Mug, Nail Crafts, 8.5x11 Inches 20 Sheets : Office Products

Amazon.com: KOALA Matte Waterslide Decal Paper for INKJET & LASER Printers, No Need Spray Coating, White 8.5x11 Inch Water Slide Paper for DIY Tumbler, Mug, Nail Crafts, 20 Sheets : Office Products

[Chariots of Fire]

I've used Sunnyscopa clear decal paper for laser printers for a number of years.  Really good stuff.   Thin so the edges don't show when put over gloss paint and then with a clear overcoat.  8x10 sheets in a pack of 10 or 20.

[DJMar]

I've used Bare Metal's Expert Choice for the last 15+ years and have been pretty happy with it. They have it for inkjet and laser printers, in both clear and white. 

To be fair, I've printed emblems, logos, and other relatively small stuff (bumper stickers) with it. I do find it a bit thick. I've never had an issue with it not adhering. It handles enamel & acrylic clears well. It's also inexpensive, about $8-10 for a 3 pack of 8.5x11 sheets.

 

[peteski]

Another vote  for Bare-Matal Foil paper.  I use the laser paper with my Alps printer. Never tried their ink jet paper but I expect it to work as designed.  I was given some Sunnyscopa and while it was impressively thin (I guess the sell different thicknesses), it was difficult to slide of the backing paper to apply.

[Straightliner59]

14 hours ago, Mike 1017 said:

I have used the Waterslide Koala No spray inkjet and laser, clear and white decal paper I am happy with the results using my HP Inkjet

Amazon.com: KOALA Waterslide Decal Paper INKJET CLEAR, No Spray Coating Water Slide Decal Paper for DIY Tumbler, Mug, Nail Crafts, 8.5x11 Inches 20 Sheets : Office Products

Amazon.com: KOALA Matte Waterslide Decal Paper for INKJET & LASER Printers, No Need Spray Coating, White 8.5x11 Inch Water Slide Paper for DIY Tumbler, Mug, Nail Crafts, 20 Sheets : Office Products

I've had pretty good luck with both Koala and Blinggasm. I've made a lot of decals for my projects, the last few years.