Dark Angels Shaped Decal

[Sevej]

So I'm finally going to decal my chapter using a custom logo. The logo is very similar to Dark Angels, only the sword is replaced by a gauntled.

 

My question is, in a tutorial I saw that you should slice the dark angels decal a bit (on the part between the sword and the wings) so that it will settle properly on the curvy surface of the shoulder pad.

 

Is this really necessary? I don't have microsol/set available locally, but there's vallejo equivalent.

 

The reason I'm asking this is I'm not sure if I want to do the slicing on a hundred emblems (also I'm not sure about the quality/thiness of the locally available decal sheet).

[Major_Gilbear]

It depends on the decal shape to some extent. Some shapes which are narrow and tall, or wide but not very tall, wrap quite well around the shoulderpad. Others, especially those which are quite big, don't conform to the pad well - and the uneven curves of the shoulder pad don't help.

 

Slicing into the decals is a "quick" way to help provide the decal with some flexibity to conform to tighter curves.

 

Alternatively, you can use decal solvents which soften the decal carrier film and allow it to effectively stretch to fit the surface contours.

 

With homemade decals (as opposed to professional custom decals, like those provided by CompanyB), there is a risk that the solvent setting solution may damage the carrier film or cause the printer ink to run. However, I would suggest reading around the internet to see what people have used successfully as I'm certain that it is possible as long as you are careful, delicate, and patient with them.

[Itsacon]

I've had less than stellar experience with Micro-sol/set on self-printed decals (Testors). As Gilbear said, it malforms the backing paper. This isn't a big problem with transparent backing paper, but when using the white-backed sheets, it's very noticable.

 

For normal decals I never cut in advance, but if I notice the decal is creasing, I might cut it in place. (This has the advantage of knowing exactly where the strain on the decal is).

[Sevej]

Thankfully it's going to be a basic black decal on white surface. It's the size that worries me (same size as DA sword-on-wings decal).

 

So just let the decal set, and if there's air bubble or creases then cut correct?

[Major_Gilbear]

I prefer to cut first (less chance of tearing the decal, but it makes it fiddly to apply.

 

Others prefer to cut after, but you risk tearing the decal and/or scoring the model (obviously, use a fresh blade!).

 

Neither is more correct really, it's just a matter of risk/preference.