Is it just me?

I have noticed this recently.  I think there are a lot more mfgs of decals now.  Bigger differance between brands, thickness of decal, release time, affected differently by setting solutions and solvents, differences in ability to bend sharply.

This stuff is your friend.

http://www.mr-hobby.com/en/itemDetail.php?iId=215

Unlike every other decal setter/solvent that I've come across, Mr Mark Setter has an adhesive component and will actively stick the decal down on the surface. It's pretty tenacious and sometimes you will need to dilute with water (using a wet paint brush) if you need to reposition a decal after applying to the surface.

Remove from water as soon as you can move them, but they don't stick.

That's what I do. In fact, I only soak them for about five seconds or so before I put them on damp paper towel. 

I don't use aftermarket decals, and the decals I've had the most trouble with are in Revell AG, Dragon and Italeri 1/72 armour kits. Cartograf?

I can't remember where I read it, but in one article I saw recently the author talked about soaking decals briefly in a water/white glue mix. I've never tried that, and I can see downsides, but that kind of tapped into the frustration I've felt.

Greg

 

 

GMorrison

Try cutting the soak time way down.

 

 

I agree, this almost certainly is the problem. Remove from water as soon as you can move them, but they don't stick.

 

I third the motion.

GMorrison

Try cutting the soak time way down.

I agree, this almost certainly is the problem. Remove from water as soon as you can move them, but they don't stick.

You are certainly right, in the sense that to me 30 years ago, AM decals meant Microscale.

The only time that I've had something happen as described here is with a few Academy brand kits and their own decals. But certainly not with any aftermarket decals, nor with the vast majority of kit decals. 

Bil, I'd counter on aftermarket decals of 30 years ago. There were fewer companies, but they had extensive catalogs, and much longer production runs. Nowadays there are more companies, making short run sheets for only a handful of subjects types that each company tends to specialize in. Once that sheet is sold out, you're on your own.

Try cutting the soak time way down. I generally go about 15 seconds or so and then place it on a piece of paper towel. Test it gently until the glue softens and lets it just begin to slide.

There is of course the whole aftermarket of decals that didn't exist thirty years ago. There, results may vary.

i also try to stay away from set/ sol unless it's obvious that it bneeds it.

And overcoating the decal does nothing to help adhere it, except perhaps around the edges.

Bill

No I haven't had that issue but have had others. My suggestion is to paint at least your insignia and larger markings. It's a lot less frustrating and much more fun to do.