Who does not know about the "silvering" of decal film that lets an outstanding
paint job look old. This is especially true when the paint is not as glossy
and the decal does not cling very well. There are two ways to address this
problem:
Either one cuts the carrier film from the moist decal which is troublesome
and fidgety work or one uses stencils and spray paints the marking in question.
One cannot dismiss decals totally since small designs and small lettering
can only be applied in decal form. To the larger markings that the eye is
immediately attracted to, a very good result can be achieved with stencils.
The advantage here is the opacity of the paint can be varied and it also
eliminates problems with recessed panel lines in large areas to be covered.
National
emblems and markings:
The basis for the stencils is the decal sheet contained in the kit. Lay
a relativly thick sheet plastic foil on top of the decal sheet and fix it
firm with tape. Then use frisket paper (in my case Revell Masking foil)
and stick it on top of the plastic foil beneath it. With a ruler and a sharp
knife cut out your mask based on the decal underneath. Use curved template
rulers available in office supply stores for curves and circles. Pull the
mask carefully from the backing and apply to model making sure of proper
alignment. If more than one color is needed it is only a matter of time
and number of masks. Even American markings should not be a problem.
Stencils instead of decals
Image 1:
The basis, the decal
Image 2:
Positioned and airbrushed. Short
drying period.
Image 3:
Same mask on the other side of
the fuselage, a new one is not necessary
Image 4:
National emblem? This is only
possible with Luftwaffe models but very simple.
Image 5:
Outline lettering or multi-colored
motifs...
Image 6:
...a little more effort, but
an acceptable result .
A little tip: After a short drying period pull the mask
off. The Revell mask leaves after multiple uses remnants of adhesive on
the paint job. Take care here and make sure to use more than one thin dry
coat rather than a wet coat because this leaves a noticeable ridge when
the mask is removed.
It is possible with this method to create a model that is different from
the decal instructions and can be individualized. Other markings are possible
and expands the possibilities of what can do with the models on has on hand.
Other
possibilities:
Arrows, lines, invasion stripes etc. No problem. Everything that is not
a drawing can be airbrushed... For me walkways always presented an optical
problem and that is why I came up with the following solution to the problem
of getting rid of the ugly carrier film.
Stencils instead of decals
- walkways
Image 7:
Using Tamiya masking tape mask
of the edges of the walkways.
Image 8:
On a properly fitted piece of
frisket paper cut small windows at regular distances.
This is then firmly glued on the masked edges of
the walkway. Make sure you firmly press down on
the frisket paper.
Image 9:
Airbrush! You decide on the opacity
of the paint. If you are careful and apply the right
amount of paint (not too wet) you can pull the mask
of right away and proceed briskly with your work.
Conclusion:
A good result can only be achieved with additional efforts. For sure it
is easier and faster to apply decals with softener and water, but the decal
carrier will remain. It may not be visible at first glance, but it will
appear if you look at the decal from different angles. With my type of painting
this effect will be eliminated. But it needs lots of masking tape, foil
and a Rucksack of patience.
The end result is acceptable. Weathering does not present
a problem any more since the decal cannot interfere.There
are also no more problems with engraved panel lines.
meet the author
Christian Jakl
I live with my charming wife and daughter on the outskirts of Vienna. I was born in 1971 and studied to be a typographical engineer. Since childhood I have always been interested in modeling. From model ships and cars I have gradually shifted to aircraft models of WW II. with a heavy emphasis on the German Luftwaffe. My real interest however is in the creation of dioramas in 1/48 scale. I enjoy the scratch building and can let my creative energies come to the fore. I have devoted my time to thedeveloping of new techniques; to enhance model kits with added accessories and above all to try out new tools to get better results.
The learning curve is constant. I am never satisfied and am constantly trying to make models as lifelike as possible. The only problem is the time factor. There is never enough of it as you all well know. I hope you enjoy these webpages and I would like to have you critique my work in a constructive manner.
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other than private use!
Who does not know about the "silvering" of decal film that lets an outstanding
paint job look old. This is especially true when the paint is not as glossy
and the decal does not cling very well. There are two ways to address this
problem:
National
emblems and markings:
christian.jakl@oeamtc.at
