decal problems(for me)

Hallo
probably for you model's gurus the answer will be easy....be patient: i'm not totally a newbie but almost.
the issue: german wwi decals: the black crosses with white perimeter are in 2 pieces . One great white cross and a black smaller one.How have I to proceed? Do I have to fix the white and, after spayed a gloss coat, prooceed to fix the black cross and finally cover it with a matt transparent coat? is this the right way?
thanks in advance
ottokess

Hello Otto and welcome to the 'Drome! First round in the mess is on me !
As to your decal problems, here's how I would proceed: First fix the white part of the cross and allow to dry thoroughly and then affix the black part. Afterwards, shoot your gloss and matte over it. I have to admit I don't use gloss or matte coats, so other members might have better advice (your mileage may vary). I've also heard that a drop or two of dish soap in your decal water helps improve things. Best of luck with your build!

Brian da Basher
(currently bashing a Curtiss Jenny from the venerable 1/72 Airfix DH 4)

[Rufe]

Hello Otto,

I would use the gloss coat first, to give the decals a smoothe surface to attach to.
You do not have to overspray between the decals, but use a drop of water to keep
the black decal "afloat" until you get them aligned. You can then use a tissue to
absorb the extra water. Some decals adhere very quickly, the extra bit of water
should give you a lot of time.

Later, you can cover the whole plane/wing with an overcoat of your choice.

Opinion: I seldom use gloss overcoats in small scale, as they reflect too much for my eyes.
If you put two 1/48th cars side by side, one glossy, one satiny, the gloss looks like
a toy, the satin looks more realistic to me. I view the glossy finish on some wings the same way.

[StephenLawson]

Originally Posted by ottokess

" Hallo...the issue: german wwi decals: the black crosses with white perimeter are in 2 pieces . One large white cross and a black smaller one. How am I to proceed? Do I have to fix the white and, after that spray a gloss coat, prooceed to fix the black cross and finally cover it with a matt transparent coat? is this the right way?
thanks in advance
ottokess

Welcome to the "Drome" ottokess. This is my usual routine with two part crosses. First fix the white cross and, after that spray a light gloss or semi-gloss coat. Let it completely dry. Then apply the black cross, let it dry completely. Spray a final coating a semi gloss or matt (flat) transparent (clear) coat. I use microscale or solvaset decal softeners.

Thanks to you all !!!!!
This is really a great place with gentle and nice people...I will recommend it to my friends
Thanks again
otto