Decals

[Robert Middleton]

Random question about decals here, but do you have to glosscoat the object that you are decaling before you apply the decal? I checked one of the books in the tower, and it said that the surface must have a gloss or semi-gloss finish on it. Is that necessary, or does that just depend on the type of decals that you are applying?

[conrail71]

Decals tend to adhear better to a glossy surface. I usualy either paint with a gloss color or apply gloss coat before putting on decals. Also, use some type of setting solution like Solvaset to help the decal "snuggle" into the surface details. Once dry you can then apply dull coat and weather to taste. Serve piping hot with a garnish of parsley.
Mike

[Otto Vondrak]

Them books speak the trooth (so does Mr. Smith). Assuming we're talking about water-slide decals and not dry transfers, a glossy surface is recommended. Remember, it doesn't have to be heavy coats. Quick, light coats is all you need. My first decal job ever turned out excellent because I followed the instructions exactly and took my time. Take your time and you can be an instant expert, too!

See also: http://railroad.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=32

-otto-

[Robert Middleton]

Ah, okay. I tried applying some decals before, but they didn't turn out well. Maybe that's why.

A general painting question though, when painting a locomotive would it be better to use some spray paint, or something like Floquil just painted on with a brush? Or does it not matter(I.E. depend on your preference)?

[conrail71]

If you're painting the entire shell then some type of air application is better (airbrush or spray can). The paint will go on much smoother than with a brush. If you're just doing a small area, handrails, anti glare panels or step edges, then a brush will work great. Flat paints tend to show less brush strokes than gloss paints do. I have entered models in car contests where others in the same class had brush painted the entire body of a 1/25th scale car with gloss paint. Needless to say you could see the brush marks from across the room. I won, but it was like drag racing against a car up on cinder blocks, no contest.

Mike

[Otto Vondrak]

Ah, okay. I tried applying some decals before, but they didn't turn out well. Maybe that's why.

A general painting question though, when painting a locomotive would it be better to use some spray paint, or something like Floquil just painted on with a brush? Or does it not matter(I.E. depend on your preference)?

You can get good results with brush painting, but the process is tedious, and there's always the change of leaving visible brush marks. Spray paints or better yet an airbrush is the way to go. Hobby spray paints are specially formulated for use on model plastics, but check the can before using. Spray cans do have the tendency to clog and splatter, but this can be avoided with careful handling.

The most important thing to remember (and this comes from years of experience taught to me by my dad, an expert furniture finisher): keep your paint source moving- whether its spray can, spray gun or airbrush, and keep it moving past the edges of your model. Don't let it puddle up. Smooth, controlled motion is what you're going for. Don't paint like you're erasing a chalkboard or wiping a window. The motion is more like spreading peanut butter on bread or frosting a cake. Apply light coats and let them dry before moving on. Don't rush and apply one heavy coat, the paint with cake on and obscure fine detail and you'll be left with a subpar finish.

It's a process, it takes some time, but the results are worth it. You'll be amazed with yourself when you pull away that masking tape and reveal a perfect finish!

-otto-