introduction

For me, one of the most difficult challenges in painting 1/35 scale figures is getting a good representation of a camouflage pattern. After several unsuccessful attempts, I found a series of decal sheets from Crossdelta, a Korean aftermarket accessory manufacturer, and thought I would give it a try.

the camo decal

The product arrived in a clear plastic sleeve, with the decal on a single sheet approx. 4 X 6 inches (100mm X 150mm). There is a card with information and instructions printed in black ink with the splinter camo pattern as a background, making reading a little difficult. There is a warning not to work the decal too much as it may remove the printed surface of the decal.

The figure set I used was a Dragon self propelled gun crew, set 6016. I chose the driver, who is depicted as walking and carrying a jerry can. I cut small sections so the front and rear leg sections would be separate, soaked the decal in warm water and then carefully applied the decal to the leg. I then applied solvaset decal setting solution. I gently worked over the decal, pressing out air bubbles and working it into the creases.

It took me a total of 3 applications of solvaset to get the decal down, though the brush I was using wasn't firm enough to press out some very small air bubbles. I then applied the decal to the rear of the leg, and then the same on the other leg, front and back, using the same process.

Small parts were cut out and applied to the fly flap on the pants, collars and hood inside. I was cautions in handling the decal but had no problems with the printed surface. The only problem I had was that over an uneven surface the decal would fold in small areas. With this type of camo pattern, it was hard to see on the finished product.

After application, the decal was very shiny, so I brushed on a coat of Model Master acrylic flat coat, then did a simple pin wash with dark oils. The finished effect is much better than I could have achieved on my own with a brush. It may take some time learning how to use the product, but with some practice, it will work out very nicely for putting figures in a camouflage uniform, and can be lined up on the seams.

In addition to uniforms, this product could be used for ponchos, shelter halves and tarps.

conclusion

I think this is a useful product for those who have been put off by hand painting complex camouflage patterns. Crossdelta offers several different print patterns. I think it worked well. I purchased my sample at Lucky Model but have found it online at most modeling sites.