Veteran scale modelers or miniature painters tend to take the act of water decal application for granted. When I first started out as noob scale modeler, I remember being absolutely terrified of applying water decals for fear of damaging them as most model kits did not include spare decals in anticipation of some being damaged during the application process. One thing I wish I knew back then was that I actually had more time to manipulate the water decal during the application process before it dried out. That and the fact there were ways to re-hydrate the decals thus extending the time we could work with the decals. Time affords us the opportunity to be patient in the water decal application process. And patience is the key virtue required in this task.
Below are the two YouTube Shorts I managed to record of a water decal application of one section of the huge Straw Hat Pirates Symbol on the main sail of the Going Merry. This is an example of how quickly the process can be achieved one you've gained sufficient experience in the process.
Meanwhile below is the main YouTube video tutorial that shows the water decal application process taking longer to completed as well as a scenario whereby the decal is accidentally torn. The main video is much longer in duration and it best describes the process if you are new to the task of water decal application. I included a torn decal scenario to show how the issue can be resolved with patience and care. Rushing the task will inevitably lead to failure as I've learned the hard way over the years. Even today I still make mistakes, but with lower frequency as my experience increases.
If you are a beginner to this hobby, I hope you've found the video tutorial informative and most importantly helpful. Please hit the like button on the videos, and subscribe to my channel. Thanks for taking the time to read this latest blog update. As always, be well and be happy.
Looking really great!
ReplyDeleteThe Going Merry is already finished. This is kind of a flashback tutorial on how I did the water decals on the ship :)
DeleteThanks for the tutorial! I've ruined just so many decals along the years!
ReplyDeleteThank you Suber ... though I am sure you are nearly master when it comes to water decal application :)
DeleteNice video - would be very helpful for beginners.
ReplyDeleteThank you so very much for you kind words, much appreciated :)
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