Your methods to create custom decals...

I was just wondering what methods you guys use to create custom decals. What type of sticker sheets do you use? I have an ink-jet and a color laser, so any suggestions will be welcome...

I’m looking to make some Dole stickers for some refer units I’m thinking of making with the 45'pines trailers.

Thanks

 

G'day Dave, I use laser paper that is used to put names on coffee mugs etc , it is available with white or clear background.The film is very thin . I print with an Alps 1000 printer as it will print white, which gives 100% water proof decals then overspray with dullcote to finnish . If you use decalset to get around ribs on trailers try to get the decal snug around ribs or cut to fit between because it will tear decal as it sucks very tight. Try contacting 1/87 vehicle & equipment club, members some have different decals done for sale.Link is at http://www.promotex.ca/ and look in links folder. Regards Les

 

Les: Where do you get the decal paper? In NSW? Sydney? This seems to be a very convenient way to get a few sheets. Right now, I have to order 25 sheets at 25US$ minimum.

 

There are several manufatures that make decal paper, some are thicker than others. I picked up a basic kit at Wal-Mart from Testors with clear and white delac sheets, spray fixative, and basic graphics software. I did m grapics in Printshop delux and printed them on the Testors clear paper. Once they have been sprayed they work just like normal decals.

 

Flash I was getting it locally in grafton NSW. He was buying through Sydney am endeavouring to find out where. Will mail when I find onfo Regards Les

 

We recently had a discussion in the Nscale forum on this topic.

You can find it here.

http://www.trainboard.com/ultimatebb.php/ubb/get_topic/f/9/t/004597.html#000002

 

Balou Line,
I had looked at that kit myself. How would you rank it? Would you recommend it to anyone else?? Thanks.

beast

 

I used a kit from a company called 'Supercal' to do some recent decals for UK diesel units in OO scale. I suspect though that standard and white decal paper to suit whichever printer you have plus a clear coat ought to give you the same results as one of the pre-made packs.

The finished model:


(direct link if you get a red X on that)
http://modelrailpics.fotopic.net/p4487256.html

I made the artwork from photo's of a real one such as this one:


(direct link if you get a red X on that)
http://ukrailwaypics.fotopic.net/p607084.html

I've done decals for several other units as well, but have not completed them as yet!

 

beast,

I use the Testor's decal kit. When you buy the kit, inside it says that if you send them $9.95, they will send you the full Sure Thing software program. I did this and it arrived in about a week.

I have had good results with it. I have made all of my decals using this kit. I would recommend it.

 

Beast,
It was nice to get everthing in one box. Not very big sheets of decal film (good thing I'm in N scale). For a first try I highly recommend it. Great way to get my feet wet in custom decals. The decals are pretty thick, it was tough over those big ribs. Next time I would like to try a thinner brand of decal sheet.
Don't forget to use a good setting solution, I used the one from Walthers, any one should work well (another personal choice issue).
Give it a try and good luck.

 

Balou,
What brand paper/setting solution do you recommend?? I may hit the wally-world tomorrow and stop by there. Give me something to start with.

beast

 

I've used both the Testor's paper and the MicroMark paper with good results. The MicroMark paper appears to be a little thinner. I have an HP psc 750 printer. I have achieved the best results with my printer set to glossy photo paper and Best quality.

On the decal solution I would recommend not using the Walthers Solvaset. It makes the decals shrivel up and the colors run. I have had more success with the Badgers Decal Softening Solution and with Microsaol.

 

Tad,
So that is the stuff to lock it down. What about keeping it stuck to the decal paper itself? Thanks.

beast

 

In the kit you will get a can of Testor's Decal Bonder. You print the decals and let them dry. I usually wait an hour or two.

Then you spray them with the Decal Bonder and let that dry overnight. A light even coat is all that is necessary. If you spray the Decal Bonder on too thick, it makes the decal too thick and stiff. Then it won't let details show through.

It's easy to spray on too much with a spray bomb. I shake it really well. I spray one pass each way while keeping the can moving. That is what I have found to work best.

 

Sounds like I have a weekend plan then. Thanks for the info Tad, I'll let you know how my first try goes.

beast

 

Tad,
Turned out pretty well. I do need to find me some clear paper though. If I get a chance, I will get some pics and post them. Painted some ore hoppers brown/mineral reddish. Then put decals on. Black lettering with the white background looks pretty sharp, but I will have to be reaaaalllyyyy careful to get everything square.

beast

 

I'm glad it worked out for you. You need to post some pics!