Ever wanted a decal that is not readily available online or in-store? Below I'll go through step by step how I create my decals for buildings, cars, and plastic kit models!
What you need:
Word or Canva
Inkjet Printer - preferably one that can print up to 1200 DPI
Hayes Waterslide Clear Decal Paper or White Decal Paper
White Ink
Unless you have a white ink printer, you won't be able to print in white ink. You can however print on white decal paper (rather than clear) to achieve this. Example below:
This is an image with white text and a coloured background. If I print this on clear decal paper, the text will be transparent. If I print on white decal paper, it will be white text on my decal. You will just need to cut out the decal neatly so you don't have a white border around that grey oval.
Remember your image will be slightly transparent if you use clear decal paper, so if your model is a darker colour, it may darken the final image that's applied to the model. This can be avoided by printing on white decal paper.
Begin your project by getting your image onto a document. I use Canva to make graphics. It's user-friendly and more versatile than Word. You can use any program you'd like, these are just two that I prefer.
Transparent Background
If you do have an image or text you want to print, make sure you have a transparent background. Websites like https://www.remove.bg/ are great at removing backgrounds. Below is an example of some text before and after the background has been removed. If I kept the grey around the text, it would print the grey area as well.
Download/Save your project as a PDF.
Print Settings
Depending on the brand of printer you have, will dictate your settings. If possible, go to advance settings and change the paper type to Photo Paper and Best quality/1200 DPI (600 DPI is ok). Print your document.
Prepping your decals
Cut the image out of the sheet, allowing at least 1-2cm around the whole image. I use an alligator clip to hold my cut-out image to avoid fingerprints. Use your Clear Matt Spray Paint to lightly coat the image. Once it's dry, repeat the process another 2 times and let it dry for at least 10 minutes.
Once dry, cut out the decal as close to the line as possible. I usually leave 1-2ml free around the image.
Applying the decal
Fill up a shallow tray/container with 2cm of tap water. Place your decal in the water, full submerge it (it may curl, so place your fingers over it for a few seconds while it absorbs all the water). After 45 seconds to 1 minute, the decals will be ready to slide off the backing paper. Slowly peel your decals off the backing paper, be careful not to tear the decal. Place it directly onto the model and use your fingers to smooth out any creases. Soak up any excess water by lightly dabbing some tissue over it. Depending on the model, you might want to seal the model when it's finished to avoid any peeling.
Below is an example of a model that has decals (also hand painting) to fill up a graffiti wall!