How to Make R2 Aztec Decals Less Awful

[STR]

Perhaps I'm simply spoiled by the aftermarket decals I've used recently, but the R2 decals seemed to be terrible (albeit, nice looking when and if they can actually be applied). They tear when you look at them. They don't settle particularly well, even with multiple applications of settling solution. God help you if you want to remove a torn piece after it's dried.

I'm not hopeful about the latter (if the film doesn't soften much, it simply doesn't). What can I do about the former though? Would spraying a coat or two of decal bonder help with the brittleness? Micro Liquid Decal Film?

[MEATLOAFr]

scan and copy them, print to your own paper

[Moongrim]

scan and copy them, print to your own paper

I concur with that assessment, they tear even when fresh from the box, off the shelf.

[STR]

Well, I've already downloaded the scanned decals from the 1/2500 thread. I've got a color laser printer, so at least I don't have to worry about ink running. I *do* have to tweak the color and levels a bit on the jpg.

I've also ordered a bottle of Microscale's Liquid Decal Film (which came recommended for keeping old, brittle decals together), which I can use to try and rescue the box decals AND apply to any printed decals. So I'll try it on the R2 decals first and if that fails order a ream of clear laser printer compatible decal sheets and mess with that.

[STR]

Liquid Decal Film, at least in testing decals from other R2 kits, seems to be a marked improvement. The decals are still thick and need about 4 Micro Sol rounds to settle down, but are not nearly as brittle. Haven't torn one yet.

I'll review again once I get my replacement Defiant decals (the origin of this issue) and place them.

[TonyG2]

I would second the use of liquid decal film to beef up the decals and stand a better chance of survival.

Depending on the size of the decal, it is also worth slicing them whilst still on the sheet into a more manageable size. Less risk of them breaking up although you have to be really sure of getting them in place. if the first part is off by a fraction then you are in real trouble.

[el gato]

Depending on the size of the decal, it is also worth slicing them whilst still on the sheet into a more manageable size. Less risk of them breaking up although you have to be really sure of getting them in place. if the first part is off by a fraction then you are in real trouble.

This. I cut the decal as close to the print as possible to minimize flange. Then I cut the larger pieces into more manageable sizes. Lastly, a generous helping of MicroSol. I've had 2 or 3 tear on me but for the most part these steps seem to have helped.

[NCC1966]

Lately I figured out that two or three thick coats of clear spray creates a strong film that prevents custom decals to tear apart. Maybe it will help R2 stuff too.