Waterslide Decals
Plastic model decals add that extra level of fine detail to scale models. This is something that is often impossible to achieve with paint or other means. But decals are not without issues.
Some common issues are:
Getting the design you want:
For many years decals came with the predesigned model kit. The two went together. But when home hobbyists started making their own models they were left stuck. Who would make the decals.
Inkjet decal paper solved this. Anybody with a home computer and printer could print their own decals, they just needed to use some decal paper.
Smooth Results
Decals should neatly blend with the surface they are applied to. This can be compromised if the rim of the decal looks off-colour. This is a noticeable as a slightly silver/grey colour where the decal should be clear.
The silver/grey colour problem is caused by the surface the decal is applied to. If the surfaces is smooth and glossy the decal should sit neatly, and have completely transparent edges. But if the decal is applied to a matt surface there will be tiny air bubbles under the decal surface, leading to the silver/grey tint.
Decals are best applied to smooth glossy surfaces. If the model is meant to have a matt finish this can be applied after the decals are finished.
Making White Toner Decal Designs
Most computer printers will print colours, except white. This is because the paper is white, so any white areas are simply left blank. Unfortunately, this does not work for decals, because the white area on the decal really needs to be white.
This problem is resolved with white toner decal ink. This replaces the black toner cartridge in the printer, and prints white instead. So white decals a no problem.
White Toner Decal
Print custom designed decals in any colour, including white, with inkjet decal paper and a White Toner Decal ink.
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