flat paint under decals

Actually, although it is the conventional wisdom to gloss the area you apply a decal to, it is not absolutely necessary.

If I am applying decals that are large and on the heavy or thick side, and the flat coat is not actually rough, I usually just let the slime that comes on the decal do the job. This worked fine for a 1/32 Hase Mustang I recently did.

In a recent FSM build article, the modeler simply applied mixed some water and Future to the spot where the decal was supposed to go, and applied the decal before the mix dried and it worked out fine.

If I am working with special art work or long stripes for decals, I will go ahead and gloss the area first, just ot make sure.

If the kit comes in a color I already like, I apply them straight to the unpainted plastic, like with a Monogram SR-71, or the Academy Korean War F4U-4, then clear coat over them when they're dry.

I don't always use decal setting solution, either.

 Tom

T_Terrific wrote:

Actually, although it is the conventional wisdom to gloss the area you apply a decal to, it is not absolutely necessary. In a recent FSM build article, the modeler simply applied mixed some water and Future to the spot where the decal was supposed to go, and applied the decal before the mix dried and it worked out fine. make sure.  Tom

the only thing about the fsm article is  that future was used  (aka)  gloss coat

DURR wrote:

the only thing about the fsm article is  that future was used  (aka)  gloss coat

Depends on which article you are referring to DURR.

Usually it is used as a decal prep and/or sealer, and then the modeler often finish-coats the subject with Model Master flats, etc.

See Darren Roberts November '06 aritcle titled "Top Gun +20"

Tom