Thanks everyone for stopping by and writing down your comments, I really do appreciate it.
I do feel somewhat sorry for those who feel using decals on figures is sort of cheating because you could very well be overlooking a method that could bring your project to the next level. What I did here was no short cut, I'm not even sure if any time was saved going this route. The application of decals to the surcoat alone took the better part of an afternoon and after being done two thirds had to take a break from both a sore neck and back. Was it easier? Well that depends if you are capable with the computer and particularly some sort of photoshop program. The technology is there so take advantage of it. It is a lot easier to blow up an image on screen and work on it there as compared to straining your eyes or using a magnifying glass. For over thirty years now I have both been painting on canvas and building kits and I don't think I could get as intricate a job on that textile pattern by doing it freehand. If someone out there can, my hats off to them. Nuff said...
Jack