Other
News......
We
received an E-mail a couple of weeks ago from a customer that was
having a challenging time with the full-color decal from our 48-227
F/A-18C Snakes and Dragons sheet. As you all know, whenever we have
a sheet with tonal variations and blended colors, we use a
four-color printing process. The inks used in this process aren't as
"pliable" as the traditional inks used in screen printing and we
recommend that you use the technique called out below when applying
these decals. This technique only applies to decals that are printed
in this process on a constant carrier film.
PLEASE READ THESE
INSTRUCTIONS Digital Silk decals are extremely durable and do not
easily scratch, and are printed on a continuous, clear film. Each
design will need to be cut out individually. Digital Silk decals do
not generally need to be clear coated prior to use. Use care when
applying as the decal film is extremely thin. Digital Silk decals
are tough and durable, but do not like to bend around corners. To
get the decals to flex or bend, an easy solution is to soak the
decal in VERY HOT water. The HOT WATER softens the ink and allows
the decal to conform around tails and over uneven surfaces. DO NOT
float the decal off of the paper, as it will fold over itself and
become unusable. Rather, soak the decal in very HOT water for about
45 seconds then remove it and allow it to sit for 15 seconds before
trying to slide it off of the backing paper. "Normal" decal setting
solutions can be used with these decals. We recommend using
Microscale's Micro Set (a wetting agent) and Mi cro Sol (a SOLvent),
but note the decal solvents only effect the clear film and have
LITTLE TO NO effect on the inks. Brush the Micro Set directly on
your model before sliding the decal into position. After you slide
the decal into position and soak up the excess liquid, apply a thin
coat of Micro Sol (the solvent) to soften the clear carrier. It is
important to get the Micro Sol under the decal, as the solvent has
little effect on the ink, but it will dissolve the clear carrier
which allows the decal to dig into the paint. After this coat dries
and you are certain the decal is in its final position, apply a
second heavier coat of Micro Sol. Another method to try is to use a
cloth soaked in HOT water to press the decal into place over rivets,
panels lines and other contours. Just a reminder, HEAT is the best
option to make the ink bend and conform. After the decals are
completely dry, clear coating your model after applying these (or
any) decals is a must! I repeat this is a must. The clear coat will
seal your decal and prevent it from becoming damaged. Airbrush
lacquers only in very light, misting coats. Another method to clear
coat the decal is to use Future acrylic floor polish. Good luck and
thank you for using Digital Silk decals!
Have a great week
guys!
Bob Sanchez
Twobobs Aviation Graphics
Two
Accurate, Two Colorful, Twobobs!!
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Website!
