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Set, Sol and Warm Water? (Decals)

Posted: April 13th, 2017, 11:08 am
by TomCrewe
I have been building a couple of models just experimenting after a few years (40 ish years) away from plastic kits.

I have a Airfix 1:48 Spitfire. I have built it and painted it, had a few hiccups but that's what I wanted to learn on this build.

But Decals have been different, I applied a couple straight to the matt finish then painted the model with Humbrol gloss (H35), added a couple of decals just with warm water, and then from looking here and other places, I bought some Micro set and sol, when I coated the wing with set for the next decal it did not spread it just collected in drops I applied the decal and then coated with sol twice and let all decals dry.

Now I can't see any difference in fact it was less work to just use warm water. the decals are not Airfix they are Venture ones.

Before I finish the final decals and coat the model Matt, Have I missed something?

Or is it like somethings in life in general they claim to be miracle products but end up urban myths that don't work!

Re: Set, Sol and Warm Water? (Decals)

Posted: April 13th, 2017, 5:33 pm
by iggie
In my experience, a setting solution of some kind (I use Revell's version) is usually beneficial especially where decals go over engraved panel lines or over/around compound curves. If you gloss first, then use plain old warm water, you'll probably not notice much or any difference by using setting solutions in most cases on flat surfaces, but thick decals really need some help to take up panel lines even then.

But, as ever, the best way is what works for you, and that you are happy with!

Re: Set, Sol and Warm Water? (Decals)

Posted: April 13th, 2017, 6:36 pm
by TobyC
The quality of manufacturer is very important. Roden decals are very frail. Academy decals are tough as old boots. A top notch decal additive like microset/sol are very good but unless you have a decent product to work with first hand it's all a bit academic.

Re: Set, Sol and Warm Water? (Decals)

Posted: August 12th, 2017, 9:57 pm
by Michael modeller 48
Mirco set/sol is really good stuff! I was using Testor decal set before...