by Steven Brooks (Tulsa Modelers Forum)

Well, I finally got the decals made. I thought I'd let everyone in on my experiences.

I read about making decals with clear decal paper and copiers. So, I decided to try it with my laser printer. What really got me started is the release of a font for the Air Force in True Type format. This font is also available for you Mac users. While looking for all the stuff to make this project successful, I found that Walthers make a copier/laser safe decal paper, so I ordered some.

I had a weekend project in progress so this would become the test site for home made decals. This kit is the Star Wars AT-AT. I thought it would look better with some decals.

The first step is to decide on what you want to print. I us MS Publisher to print the decals. I set up one page with five guide lines from left to right and six from top to bottom. This allows me to make multiple passes on one sheet of decal paper by working in one grid at a time and not waste the decal paper. I work from the bottom grids to the top grids. This allows the paper to move through the printer without worrying about the set up. Next put your graphics in an unused grid and print on plain paper. Check for size and position on the decal paper. When it's right print onto the decal paper. If your printer has a flat path use that method, I do.

The second step is to apply the decals to the model. I cut the decals out as close to the graphic as possible, dipped in water and set on the bench to soak. The kit had been prepared with a gloss coat of gull gray but and clear coat should work. The area for the decal was wetted with water and the decal applied. When in position, the decal was blotted down. I tried Micro set with good results and Solvoset with better results. There was no major wrinkles, the ink did not run, and dried smooth.

The final step is the clear overcoat. I used future for the first coat. The coverage was not even. It seems that the ink repelled the future and left a blotchy appearance. I next tried Testors Dulcoat. The results were better but still not perfect. I expect the second coat will take care of the problem.

Walthers decal paper comes in two sizes, 8.5x11 ($6.38) and 5x8 ($3.18) each package has four sheets.

I used a LaserJet 4p to print my decals so test your own decals first.

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