What is the point of all these "Decal Setters"?

One is used before the decal goes down and the other is used after its down and in the right place.  The after one, Microsol or Solvaset, help the decal conform to panel lines and other surfaces.  Thats the way I use it anyway.  There are many of these products available.

wpwar11

I'm terrible at decals and these products help my game.  Microsol (blue) first and then decal over that.  It does seem to help with adhesion.  Then I put Microset (red) over the decal after I carefully press water out from under the decal.  If it's thick decals Solavaset works well.  You might see the decal wrinkle like crazy.  This is good DONT TOUCH IT.  
No reason not to try them.  I think Set and Sol can be picked up for $5 or less.  They will last for dozens of models unless you knock the easy to spill bottles over.

 

So you need 2 different setters in order to make it easier?I'll check em' out!

I'm terrible at decals and these products help my game.  Microsol (blue) first and then decal over that.  It does seem to help with adhesion.  Then I put Microset (red) over the decal after I carefully press water out from under the decal.  If it's thick decals Solavaset works well.  You might see the decal wrinkle like crazy.  This is good DONT TOUCH IT.  
No reason not to try them.  I think Set and Sol can be picked up for $5 or less.  They will last for dozens of models unless you knock the easy to spill bottles over.

the Baron

 

 

TheModeler

Technically,the title says it all.I'm new to modeling,but I just use water for my waterslide decals to apply.Why do you really need all these Decal "Setters",and "Softeners"? 

 

 

 

Remember that a decal is a color deposited on a carrier film. 

Water dissolves the adhesive that holds the decal to the backing paper, but it doesn't really dissolve the decal itself.

Setters and softeners dissolve it, which is how they help get it to settle down on a surface.  And the difference between them is how hot they are.  Setting solutions are hotter than softeners, but they both dissolve the decal.

And as you go on in the hobby, you'll find that not all brands of decal are the same.  Some brands are known for being thicker than others, for example.  They usually don't settle down on the surface without help.

 

 

OK,thank you for the info!I guess I'll just order some later,because I have been having a hard time placing decals.

TheModeler

Technically,the title says it all.I'm new to modeling,but I just use water for my waterslide decals to apply.Why do you really need all these Decal "Setters",and "Softeners"? 

Remember that a decal is a color deposited on a carrier film. 

Water dissolves the adhesive that holds the decal to the backing paper, but it doesn't really dissolve the decal itself.

Setters and softeners dissolve it, which is how they help get it to settle down on a surface.  And the difference between them is how hot they are.  Setting solutions are hotter than softeners, but they both dissolve the decal.

And as you go on in the hobby, you'll find that not all brands of decal are the same.  Some brands are known for being thicker than others, for example.  They usually don't settle down on the surface without help.

Bish

...And remember, decals are best placed on a gloss surface, not everyone realises that.

Try some as a test. You will get better results with Micro Set.

Yes they definitly help,not on a smooth surface,but any irregular surface,like the Zimm on a German tank and other things as mentioned.

I use the Micro Set and Micro Sol

Also Solvaset is good,very strong.

They soften the decal and draw it down into recesses, such as panel lines and over any lumps and bumps. Even on a flat surface they help the decal draw the decal down.

Edit: And remember, decals are best placed on a gloss surface, not everyone realises that.