Decals

I use a paint brush to slide the decals from the backing paper to the model's surface, and then to adjust the decal's position.  I can use the brush to pick up water or wick it away as necessary, till I have the decal where I want it.

The decals forum is in the Tools, Techniques and Reference area, below the Modeling Subjects area.

The new super thin decals require a new method of application.  Do not take them off the backing paper and try to transport them to the model.  Rather, place the decal and backing paper on the model in the place where it should be located.  Slide the decal slightly so that a small portion of it leaves the backing paper and you can hold that edge in position (with sharp tweezers, knife tip, or whatever).  Now, grab the area of the backing paper with another tweezer on the opposite side where there is no decal film, and pull the paper out from under the decal.  Yes, I know that sometimes this requires three hands, but that is the way to do it. If you try to pick up the decal film and hold it suspended, it will warp or curl, often back upon itself!

Many of the new decals are very thin. This helps them conform but also means thats are tricky to handle. If these were old decals, i would suggest a liquid decal film.

That's a start, but we could use some additional details.  Are they breaking up while soaking?  When you try to apply them to the model?  Are they curling, wrinkling, etc?

Best regards,

Brad

Decals seem to be to fragile for me to handle.

Can you be more specific about the issues your having. And if you post this in the Decaling section, you should get a better response.

http://cs.finescale.com/fsm/tools_techniques_and_reference_materials/f/20.aspx