Water Slide Graphics. How To?

[crazybuilder]

Hey guys I bought a sheet of this from smallbear.  I got the right size for my first box then printed it to the paper. Then I put it into water in a bowl but in like 4 sec. the letters came off in a big mess and then i took it out and the decal slid off but it was a mess also. How do you do this the right way? Can anyone help?

-J

[crazybuilder]

Can anyone please help me?

[sir_modulus]

I can't help you, but I guess it's a slow day. Usually someone will reply. Ask Paul Marossy, as I think he uses waterslide decals on all of his stompboxes.

[Torchy]

I use waterslides on FX, models, and dolls houses (don't ask) ...

If they are inkjet printed, after the ink has dried on the surface (I leave it half an hour or so) it needs a spray with sealer because inkjet ink is water soluble. I usually cut out the decal then spray very lightly with some gloss varnish, just enough to cover the ink. I've stopped using inkjet paper for this reason (ie its a pain). I buy Laser Decal Paper now (same price). I print the design onto ordinary paper then get the guy at Staples to run it through the colour-photocopier for £0.68p  

To apply, put the decal in tepid water and I add a couple drops of DecalCote1 (Humbrol or Tamiya). This makes the decal more pliable and less likely to tear. After a couple of minutes the decal is ready to slide - Move the decal slightly off the paper (couple of mm) and position on the box. Now slide the paper out from under the decal. Final position the decal with a damp cotton-bud. Now use kitchen-roll (absorbent thick tissue) - touch the edge of the decal with the edge of the tissue and it will draw the water from under the decal. Any bubbles can be squuzed to the edge (gently) with the damp cotton bud.

I use a small paintbrush to apply a little Decal-Cote2 to the top surface and edges of the decal to stop it crinkling when it dries, and leave it at room temperature to dry. Now top-coat as usual.

Works for me, hope it helps  :wink:

[crazybuilder]

Cool great info thanks a  lot!

-J

[MartyB]

I had the same experience (lol).  A cheap spray can of clear coat seals the ink onto the waterslide like the prev poster said.  Works like a charm.  You just need one good coat.

[mugan]

Did anyone have ever used the Decal softener that small bear sells?