Decal won't Settle

It's difficult to see from the pics, but did you gloss coat before applying the decals? If not, that's a major problem. The setting solution/decal solvent will cause the decals to wrinkle, but if they're not on a good glossy surface, they won't flatten out as they dry and the wrinkles become permanent.

Phil_H

It's difficult to see from the pics, but did you gloss coat before applying the decals? If not, that's a major problem.

I applied a coat of Pledge to the model before applying the decals and apologize about the pics; I took them with a macro lens. Tamiya's Mark Fit Strong might solve the problem. 

From the 2 pics, you may have two different things going on.

#1 Sometimes a bump is just too much for decal setting solution to overcome, and this may or may not be the case here. If so, best way I know to fix it is slice the decal along the rised line with an extremely sharp blade, re-apply your setting solution, let it dry, touch up with the closest blue paint you can find or buy.

#2 How long did you wait for the Microsol to dry? It looks to be not long enough. That said, one application of Microsol (or Solvaset, as suggested above) is often times not enough. Just make sure to provide adequate drying time between applications. And that usually means 8 hours plus for heaving applications and lots of wrinkling.

Good luck, and those pic really help to describe your challenge, thanks for that.

Greg

From the 2 pics, you may have two different things going on.

#1 Sometimes a bump is just too much for decal setting solution to overcome, and this may or may not be the case here. If so, best way I know to fix it is slice the decal along the rised line with an extremely sharp blade, re-apply your setting solution, let it dry, touch up with the closest blue paint you can find or buy.

#2 How long did you wait for the Microsol to dry? It looks to be not long enough. That said, one application of Microsol (or Solvaset, as suggested above) is often times not enough. Just make sure to provide adequate drying time between applications. And that usually means 8 hours plus for heaving applications and lots of wrinkling.

Good luck, and those pic really help to describe your challenge, thanks for that.

 

Much obliged for your assistance Greg,

I have applied Micro Sol about 3 times in intervals of roughly 5 hours. Cutting the decal to the raised point and painting it is a very good idea. I will have to do some paint mixing to get the exact color.

Niko

I have applied Micro Sol about 3 times in intervals of roughly 5 hours.

That is not long enough, IMO. It is very likely not dry yet when you are applying more and making the situation worse.

In any case, your next step might be to try Solvaset. But if you do, apply it, walk away and don't come back for 24 hours. By no means touch it in any way.

You are most welcome. Decal trouble is frustrating, being so close to the end of the process.

Gloss up the area, slide the decal into place, press and work any bubbles out, apply Solvaset, problem solved. 

I find Sol and Set not to work as good as Solvaset. The decal may wrinkle up but don't touch it! It will schrink and melt right into the surface looking painted on. 

Thank you all for the advice, I really appreciate it! I have applied Micro Sol twice on 12 hour intervals with no visible difference. I will get my hands on some Solvaset soon and put the build on the side for now. Its a shame these decals did not react nicely to the solution. Regardless, its a learning experience!