Papilio decal paper question on setting solution

[Foxer]

I know many here use Papilio decal paper and I'm using it for the first time on some large decals and am having problems getting it to settle over some raised body areas. I got a kit with both clear and white paper and some of their liquid fixative that is applied with a sponge.

Since this was my first time with Papilio I used the fixative rather than spraying with clear acrylic as I always do on ink jet decals. It went down pretty thin but looked ok once It dried. The first decal I tried apparently had a spot I missed and the ink ran. So I applied a couple light acrylic clear coats. The decals went on fine although the clear carrier appeared thicker than the paper I usually use.

Now I'm having trouble getting the decal to settle down over the body contours. See the image below. I use Micro Set and Micro Sol but they do not appear to be softening the decals.

I'm wondering, from experienced Papilio users, if a different setting solution works better and what solutions have worked well with this paper.

[Pete J.]

I have always use Micro Set and Micro sol and they worked for me. My main difference is that I use automotive lacquer and my top coat. That is because that is what I clear with when I am done. I have gotten in the habit of doing a very very thin top coat. The first time I used them I use a heavy coat and like you couldn't get the decal to settle down. When I removed it the decal was very strong and rubbery. I suspect this is what my be going on. One very thin coat is all I ever use.

[935k3]

I discovered by accident that Papillio decal paper actually has a clear protectiver layer that needs peeled off before painting or printing. It is a thin layer of plastic. Also to get decals to conform try a hot damp cloth pressed over the decal. It will conform instantly without wrinkles. Use a hot damp Q-Tip for small areas.

[Pete J.]

WHAT!!!!

Ok, you got me. I just spent 5 minutes trying to peal off a layer with not success. How old is your paper?

Edited July 18, 2014 by Pete J.

[Foxer]

Thanks for the comments, guys. I'm going to try that hot damp cloth trick.

The apparent thickness sounds like a plastic film ... doesn't removing it affect the decal quality?

[935k3]

Below is a picture of the film peeled back. The decal does not need this on the white or clear paper. If you leave it there it will not conform as well. It definitely is not needed and there is risk that it may peel after it is on the model for awhile.

Edited July 19, 2014 by 935k3

[Pete J.]

Below is a picture of the film peeled back. The decal does not need this on the white or clear paper. If you leave it there it will not conform as well. It definitely is not needed and there is risk that it may peel after it is on the model for awhile.

I wonder if that is something new. My paper is a couple of years old and try as I could, I couldn't find a film to take off of mine. I may have to call the company and ask.

Pete

[Foxer]

I'm going to try some Mr. Mark Setter and Softer as they are said to be stronger than Micro Sol and Set.

I can't help thinking this problem is due to that plastic film that Dale mentioned.