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AFV Painting & Weathering
Answers to questions about the right paint scheme or tips for the right effect.
Will decal fix/softener help in this case?
Armored76
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Bayern, Germany
Joined: September 30, 2013
KitMaker: 1,615 posts
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Posted: Saturday, October 03, 2015 - 10:09 AM UTC
Hi,

I have been applying decals on some raised gauges just to see these are too large, having a transparent film border that looks anything but nice when applied.



Since I never used decal fix or softener, I was wondering if that could fix such problems as well, making the excess conform to the surface?

If so, is there any brand you can suggest? I can easily get Revell's Decal Soft but almost anything else is doable.

Thanks a lot!
Cristian
sdk10159
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Oregon, United States
Joined: December 08, 2005
KitMaker: 556 posts
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Posted: Saturday, October 03, 2015 - 10:45 AM UTC
I've been using Micro-Sol/Micro-Set for years. THe other option is Solvaset. Both, I think, should do what you want.
jomark
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Metro Manila, Philippines
Joined: April 13, 2015
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Posted: Saturday, October 03, 2015 - 11:08 PM UTC
Or if those aren't available I think Mr. Mark Softer can help followed by Mr. Mark Setter.
Armored76
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Bayern, Germany
Joined: September 30, 2013
KitMaker: 1,615 posts
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 10:29 AM UTC
Thank you guys!I will give this a try and let you all know how it works.

To be honest, I still doubt it will make the decals roll down and conform to the shape...

Cheers,
Cristian
TankManNick
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California, United States
Joined: February 01, 2010
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 11:08 AM UTC
I would add to the advice that multiple applications (and thus also patience!) may be required.

I almost hate to mention it this early but... in rare cases I have (gently) applied pressure using a soft paintbrush to press the decal down but beware! It could also rip, tear or otherwise disintegrate, so try without first!

BTW, I do see that the edges appear more white than clear. Hopefully not the case in reality, but maybe paint touch up will be needed?

Oh and I've only tried Micro-sol, so can't comment on the others. (I tried Micro-set too but for me it didn't seem to do anything.)
Armored76
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Bayern, Germany
Joined: September 30, 2013
KitMaker: 1,615 posts
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 11:13 AM UTC
Thank you, Nick!

The white edges are actually "metallic" rims. There a second, transparent border more visible on upper-left side of the fourth instrument from left.
varanusk
Staff MemberManaging Editor
ARMORAMA
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain / Espaņa
Joined: July 04, 2013
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 11:42 AM UTC
You can try also to cut the excess with a very sharp blade while still on the carrier.Being round makes it more difficult but it's another option.
Armored76
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Bayern, Germany
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KitMaker: 1,615 posts
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 12:12 PM UTC
That's indeed an option... when you notice the need in time I use a pair of nail clipping scissors I "borrowed" from my wife for that purpose. It is handier then blades.
Lisec
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Croatia Hrvatska
Joined: September 13, 2006
KitMaker: 306 posts
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Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 12:48 PM UTC
With using Micro sol, use a blow drier on not too high heat to further soften the decals
Armored76
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Bayern, Germany
Joined: September 30, 2013
KitMaker: 1,615 posts
Armorama: 1,500 posts
Posted: Sunday, October 04, 2015 - 01:00 PM UTC
An excellent idea! Thanks Matija!
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