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How do you apply waterslide decals?

Even accomplished modellers will high-five anyone around when their transfers go on seamlessly, they can be a little trick at times (decals that is, not accomplished modellers), but with a few simple tips, you too will be searching for a high-five partner soon enough.
It is generally recognised that applying decals is the most delicate part of a model's build, so give yourself plenty of time. Do not expect to decorate a whole model in one go if you are short on time or patience. It is much better to apply them over several sessions and get the job done right, not quick.
Only deal with one decal at a time. A common mistake is to put the next decal to soak while fixing the previous decal to a model. This will mean you are working against the clock because decals shouldn't be left soaking for much more than twenty seconds. After that time it will start to separate from its backing, and that's something you don't want to happen whilst still in the water.
Always prepare the surface of your model first. Even the slightest oil from your fingers has the potential to cause adhesion problems. So make sure you have cleaned the surface first with soapy water. If you want to use a special decal solution on your model to aid adhesion, even better.
Always handle decals using tweezers. Once soaked in warm water to loosen the backing, use your tweezers to remove your decal (with the backing still attached) to a dry paper towel where you should allow excess water to drain, you can use a cotton bud to help gently remove water if you wish.
Now it's time to apply your decal to the model. Again using tweezers, gently apply the decal to the desired location. Get the decal as close to its final resting position as possible with the backing still attached. Once you are reasonably happy, remove the backing by sliding it from the decal. At this point, you should have a small window of opportunity where the naked decal will still slide around a little on the model should any little tweaks into position be required.
If the application has not gone right and you have some creases or the decal refuses to slide, adding water is the solution to the problem. Depending on the amount of rectification required, you can add a few drops of water to aid a small reposition, or more if you need to remove the decal and start again. The worst-case scenario is when your decal has folded on itself. In this case, carefully remove the decal using water and place it momentarily back to soak, if you're lucky, the decal will unfold itself in the warm water.
Once everything has gone according to plan and the decal is in position, gently use a cotton bud to dab the decal helping to push out any excess water, this will also help it adhere to the model. If you notice any creases appearing after the decal has started to dry, wait until it has completely dried and pierce with a sharp craft knife to allow the trapped air an escape route. You can then use a decal solution to soften the decal enabling it to be flattened to the model.
If you are using a decal solution, either for corrective measures or simply to aid adhesion and finish, you should always ensure your decal is dry first. The same goes for varnishing a decal to provide a tougher finish, always let your decal dry before application.
So remember, when applying decals, prepare your model's surface first, take your time, apply decals one at a time finishing one before moving on to the next, don't soak them for more than twenty seconds, use tweezers to handle them and gently remove excess water before applying. Once applied, slide backing off don't pull; use a drop of water if you're struggling to make final adjustments and always allow your decal to dry before adding varnish or other finishing agents.
Posted in: Decals / Transfers

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