Author Topic: DIY Decal Woes  (Read 1470 times)

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BCR751

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DIY Decal Woes
« on: March 22, 2013, 01:52:07 PM »
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I've been attempting to make my own decals using a Canon MP560 ink jet printer.  I first tried using a glossy paper called Experts-Choice.  The decals printed beautifully.  I then applied a liquid decal film made by Krassel Industries, let it dry and applied the decal to the model.  Almost immediately, the edges of the decal started to curl.  Numerous applications of Micro-Set couldn't stop it.  I had to remove the decal completely.

Figuring it must be the type of paper, I tried some Testors water slide decal paper.  This time I could not get a clear, sharp print no matter what settings I used.

I want to hear from those who do make their own decals and what system you use.  Any and all suggestions are welcome.

Doug

JoeD

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Re: DIY Decal Woes
« Reply #1 on: March 22, 2013, 02:20:51 PM »
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Decals with inkjet printers are not as easy as advertized.  If you cut too close to the image, the ink will run when wet or setting/solvent is applied.  Some curling is going to happen, but generally if you put on Micro Sol it takes care of it.  My favorite is Solvaset, this is a high power version of the Micro Scale system and must be used carefully.  I wouldn't use it on Inkjet prints though.

If you have local printing services, take your artwork and paper to someone who has a Color Laser Printer.  Be sure to get paper designed for Lasers, Micro Mark has it and I have had great resultes with that.  I don't think I have ever had curling problems with that kind of paper, but with the inkjet paper...curling all the time.  Also be sure you have a glossy surface you are putting the decals on.  If it is flat it will not lay as well and silver all  over the place.

Tip.  After you put on the solvent/set, let stand for a minute or so and then use a blow dryer set on medium and pass it over the decal back and forth.  This does two things, softens the clear backing helping it settle down faster and drys the decal before the setting solution can effect the inkjet print.  I make my own decals with my Alps and Laser printer and always apply Setting solution to get it located, pat moist with Q tip and then apply Solvent.  Let it rest and start to krinkle and then use the blow dryer.  I have gotten great results doing this.  If this spooks you, just follow the instructions on the bottle and it will work out.  You may need to re-apply the solvent a number of times to get it to lay around the edges.

Good luck!

Joe
in my civvies here.  I only represent my grandmothers home made Mac and Cheese on Railwire.

BCR 570

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Re: DIY Decal Woes
« Reply #2 on: March 22, 2013, 03:30:57 PM »
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Doug:

The recent BCR MOW decals I have used were printed on a laser printer and sealed prior to use.  I have had no issues with curling.  I have had minor issues with inconsistent printing and the solution to this has been to duplicate the lettering required so I can pick and choose the best.

Tim
T. Horton
North Vancouver, B.C.
BCR Dawson Creek Subdivision in N Scale
www.bcrdawsonsub.ca
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3MbxkZkx7zApSYCHqu2IYQ

Scottl

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Re: DIY Decal Woes
« Reply #3 on: March 22, 2013, 03:47:25 PM »
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I have used Micromark paper and a laser printer without a hitch, and I don't seal them either.  If you don't have the printer, Joe's suggestion about using Staples is a great solution. I gave up on ink jets years ago for everything, including printing on paper!

BCR751

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Re: DIY Decal Woes
« Reply #4 on: March 23, 2013, 04:34:27 PM »
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Following s suggestion, I sprayed the printed decal with Testor's Dullcoat.  After letting it dry, I applied it to a scrap piece of styrene and it appears to have worked.  No curling.  Either the other stuff by Krasel was too old or not designed for that application.  In any event, I'm going to purchase some Micro Scale Liquid Decal Film and see how that works.

Thanks for all of your suggestions.

Doug