A step-by-step guide to applying decals in 1:160, 1:120, 1:220 & 1:87!
Decals can be applied neatly to model railway vehicles in three steps: selecting and cutting them out, applying and releasing them with Microscale Micro Set, and finally settling them onto the surface with Micro Sol. In this guide I show the process using a MAN KAT1A1 Patriot vehicle in 1:160 scale.
Hello everyone and welcome to another part of the painting process: applying the decals!
To make a model look as realistic as possible, number plates, markings and badges should of course not be missing. In this example we give our MAN KAT1A1 Patriot the right decals, so it comes even closer to the real vehicle.
The steps are basically the same for every decal. That is why I explain the process once, step by step. After that you can simply repeat the same steps for all the other decals.
Selecting and preparing decals: cutting out and choosing the right markings!
In the first step we look at which decals we need for the model. We offer a large selection of high-quality decals in 1:160 N scale and 1:120 TT scale, so matching markings are available for most vehicles.
A big advantage of our decals is the cutting line already printed around each design. This means you don't have to cut the decals out to the exact millimetre, which makes the job much easier.
Once the selection is made, we cut out the decals we need and lay them out neatly. That way everything is within reach and we can apply the decals one by one.
Applying decals: releasing and placing them with Microscale Micro Set!
Now we take a brush and apply some Microscale Micro Set from the blue bottle. This is a special liquid that softens the decal and helps release it from the backing paper. There are various products with a similar effect, but I have been using Micro Set for years with very good results.
Once the decal has soaked long enough, we carefully pick it up with the brush and place it on the model. After a short time the decal releases from the backing paper and can be gently slid into the right position on the vehicle.
Then we let the Micro Set dry. Once the liquid has evaporated, the decal should stick neatly to the model. We repeat this for all the other decals.
Finishing: settling with Micro Sol and sealing with clear varnish!
In the last step we make sure the decals stay in place and look as realistic as possible. Once the Micro Set is completely dry, we take a clean brush and dip it into Microscale Micro Sol from the red bottle.
With the brush we very carefully wet the decal with a small drop of Micro Sol. No more is needed. This liquid makes the decal settle better onto the surface, which makes it look much more realistic.
Once all decals are completely dry, you can also seal the model with a coat of clear varnish. This protects the decals and fixes them permanently.
Important: if you have already made the windows with Microscale Kristal Klear, do not apply any more clear varnish with the airbrush. The varnish can make the windows milky and cloudy, and that effect will not go away. So preferably apply the clear varnish before making the windows.
And that brings us to the end of this How-To. I hope the guide was helpful and makes applying your own decals a lot easier.
Good luck with your model building and see you in the next How-To! For this How-To series we use a model from our Bundeswehr series in 1:160 scale: the MAN KAT1A1 Patriot. Our own decals in 1:160 & 1:120 are ideal for finishing your models.
Kevin Boogaard
Founder of Panzer-ShopNL
