Applying decals to a Heng Long Sherman

[BlueWotsit57]

Just wondering what I am doing wrong when applying (or trying to apply decals).

In the first instance to try the decals out I used a couple of the ones I knew I was not going to put on the tank and instead applied to another r/c model car I had

The first time I cut roughly around the image, removed the backing sheet and fixed firmly onto the car chassis, left it for about 20 minutes (not the 15 HL recommended) and then carefully peeled off the top layer, only for the entire decal to lift

Undeterred I tried a second one this time leaving it nearer 30 minutes, a bit of success in as much as half the decal stayed stuck, the remainder of the image came away with the top level.

I must be doing something fundamentally wrong but cannot see what - or is it a case of the decals are really basic and I would be better off sourcing from elsewhere, perhaps waterslide ones

cheers

[Rad_Schuhart]

Even better, forget about the decals and take a look here:

https://radindustries.wordpress.com/201 ... /stencils/

Hope it helps!

[Jimmer]

Warm the tank and stickers up with hairdryer then I found they stuck well

[PershingLover]

I suspected Rad would be here But I would recommend getting something else, whether that is decals or stencils, it's up to you

[General Jumbo01]

It takes a knack!

Firstly, cut the decal you need from the sheet but don't trim to closely. Apply the decal and carrier film where you want it to go and then press down very firmly. Leave for a few minutes then press it down again. At this point use a blunt modelling knife to lift a corner of the carrier film and then use a pair of tweezers to pull the film back over the front of the decal (not upwards). Continue to slowly pull back the film, using the tip of the blunt blade to gently separate any awkward shapes. Be careful not to rip the decal but you can usually carry on and complete with an invisible mend.

When complete, firmly press down again and then paint a coat of clear varnish over the decal and a few mm of the surrounding area, sealing and protecting the edges.

Try not to leave the model in the sun as this can cause the decals to lift, but that's good advice regardless of decals.

The stock press on vinyl decals can look very good but there are a vast range of water slide types on the market ... And stencils!

[BlueWotsit57]

Thanks people for all the input - glad I tried first on a r/c car, will try with the revised suggestions on the car again, before attacking the tank

Rad - I read your info only yesterday when I was looking into things for the tank

regards to all