Decal Application For Matte Wood Finish

[b dylan]

I would appreciate any comments on how to achieve a proper appearance for application of decals on a wood model.

I am wanting to achieve a weathered, matte finish.

This is a trial picture that demonstrates a shiny appearance of the decal on the matte finish. I obviously do not like this appearance and would like to see the decal blended into the wood better, without the shiny, stuck on appearance.

I have painted and weathered the wood and then applied a matte spray finish. I then applied the decal and used Microsol to try to soften the decal.

 

Any input on how to achieve a better result is appreciated. Thanks b dylan.

[mtaylor]

Try trimming the clear off closer to the "ink" first.   Also many spray the matte finish after the decal is in place and dry.   I'm sure others may have a better technique.

Edited October 22, 2017 by mtaylor

[Jack12477]

Try using Microsol GLOSS on the area of the wood where you intend to place the decal.  Place the decal, use Microsol SET to "set it down", when dry use Microsol FLAT to flatten the glossy look; then over spray with a matte finish.  Decals (at least water decals) work best on a gloss surface.

[Canute]

Like Jack says, gloss coat where you want the decals. Cut the decals as close to the color as you can and put it in some water. The decal slides off and you take a fine implement to lift the decal from the water and place it where you need it. Coat it with Microset and leave it alone. The decal may pucker up; don't touch it. After it dries check for silvering (where air gets trapped under the decal). Prick a few holes in the silvering and reapply the MicroSet. After all traces of silvering are gone, clean up any watermarks and apply a gloss coat.

[b dylan]

Thanks for the feedback.

 

I'll trim a little closer, as well as apply a gloss before placing the decal . I gather I can apply the matte finish on top of the decal and the area with gloss. I'll do a test first, but sounds like this should do the trick.

 

Thank you

[Jack12477]

Yes!  After the decal sets and dries, apply either Microsol Gloss or Flat to seal the decal, let it dry completely, then apply your matte finish over the Microsol

[Spaceman Spiff]

On ‎10‎/‎22‎/‎2017 at 12:35 PM, b dylan said:

I would appreciate any comments on how to achieve a proper appearance for application of decals on a wood model.

I am wanting to achieve a weathered, matte finish.

This is a trial picture that demonstrates a shiny appearance of the decal on the matte finish. I obviously do not like this appearance and would like to see the decal blended into the wood better, without the shiny, stuck on appearance.

I have painted and weathered the wood and then applied a matte spray finish. I then applied the decal and used Microsol to try to soften the decal.

 

Any input on how to achieve a better result is appreciated. Thanks b dylan.

Future floor polish (the acrylic kind) is the best. Can be brushed or airbrushed. It levels very well and provides an excellent base and reduces silvering. Also a great setter, too. Once is dry, it can take any covering.

[b dylan]

Sounds like a good idea. I’ll keep that in mind.  Thanks.

[b dylan]

Just a followup.

 

I did a test with Future floor polish (Pledge), acrylic liquid. Applied as a gloss base.

Then applied a decal. Followed by a spray matte dullcote.

This approach worked very well. The decal looks much better, no edges seen. The photo demonstrates the matte finish over the site of the decal compared to the adjacent gloss finish.

Thanks for the advice.