Screenprinted Decals

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Rogue
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Screenprinted Decals

Post by Rogue » Thu Sep 01, 2005 10:45 am

With my search for Chinese Roundels coming up empty, I have thought of screening them. :idea:
Anyone try or have experience with this.
I know I can screen them, (I run a shop)
but what about decal material and paint/ink.
I plan to try modelmaster enamal on white decal.
I plan to do the faded and new version for Ole' 5.
I guess if this works i can do the 1st Pursuit Apple too. :idea:

Opinions?

Graphic is done.

pokeyjtc
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Post by pokeyjtc » Thu Sep 01, 2005 5:32 pm

I did some custom decals of my own by scanning a set of 1/48 scale decals, then enlarging them, and then printing them on Testors white decal paper. The results aren't quite as sharp as the factory paint, but it is a good, cheap way to do a set of custom markings

http://img146.echo.cx/my.php?image=xdpl ... 0390mk.jpg

http://img146.echo.cx/my.php?image=xdpl ... 0390mk.jpg

JimBob55
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Decals

Post by JimBob55 » Thu Sep 01, 2005 8:06 pm

I did this years ago with much success. Start with any good blank decal paper. Doing the artwork will probably be the hard part. Hopefully you're talking about photo silkscreening, which is the most accurate way to get a good stencil on the silkscreen. Create a film negative for each color and plan out the order of printing the color layers

I did several colors as needed (watch the registration; you should include registration marks to help you with this).

Use a true silkscreen ink, not paint. Silkscreen ink is stiffer to lend itself to being squeegee'd through the mesh. Also, use a fairly fine mesh, otherwise you'll have a noticeable sawtooth at curves and angles.

I used vinyl ink, which dries with a bit more flexibility when dried. Several layers of ink still is nice and thin when dry. For sets of letters or numbers (or any grouping of symbols), use an overall clear ink (or maybe even a spray of vinyl floor polish) to hold the separate pieces together when transfering. Finish with a clear overspray which will smooth or hide any decal edges, etc.

JimBob

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