subject: Add Character to your Model Plane by applying Decals [print this page] Add Character to your Model Plane by applying Decals
I don't know of anyone who is not happy to get something made especially for them with that special touch of personalization. One easiest way to personalize an item is by applying decals. They're pretty cool on model airplanes, too! We'll teach you how to do it in four easy steps.
Decals are plastic, cloth paper or ceramic substrate that has printed on it a pattern that can be moved to another surface using heat or water.
They are commonly used on hot rod automobiles and plastic models. They are also used on guitars as a way of personalizing them.
Just recently, it is trending among model airplane collectors! They realized making your model plane look good requires more that just careful construction, sanding and priming. If you want it to stand out, you have to apply decals.
While the process seems intimidating and scary for some first timers, it is actually very easy.
1. Clean the surface that will be decaled. Wipe it very carefully with a damp cloth to remove any oil and dirt that may have remained on the model airplane's parts, preventing decals from sticking. If you are going to paint your model, do it first before cleaning.
2. When you cut the decals from the sheet, do it as close to its printing as possible. By doing this, you remove any visible blank space between the model and the decal once applied.
3. Prepare a bowl of warm water (not boiling). Soak the decals in the bowl just before you apply it. After a few minutes, the decals should begin to loosen and start to peel off from their paper backing. But don't let them float from it either. It is necessary to keep an eye on it during this part.
Remember: Don't force decals off of their paper backing. If they don't slide right off, they're not ready yet and you should let them soak for a bit longer or else they'll rip.
4. Put the soaked decals to your model. You can use a pair of tweezers to hold it still attached to its paper backing-. Using your other fingers, gently wipe the decal from the paper backing and onto the model aircraft. Position it properly and hold it in place for a few seconds. Let it dry.
You can opt to coat the entire airplane model with clear lacquer. Once all of the decals have been applied and are thoroughly dry, you can spray on a few coats of lacquer.
Remember: The type of spray lacquer that you use will depend on the type of model airplane that you have. Military aircraft almost always display a flat finish while civilian aircraft are most often glossy.
