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My "Masking Techniques" thread was a HUGE success. I got some great info that allowed me to produce an excellent looking paint job. Thanks so much to all those who provided their techniques.
Now that I have this great paint on my SD60M I want to get the decals right the first time. I have my Micro Sol and Set and my RI decals. I've read the instructions and everything looks straight forward, or is it?
I'd appreciate any info or tips before I start my decal application.
I included some decalling tips in my thread about F40PH-2's, here is a link to the thread. There is a picture on the first page that includes the decalling tips.
I've switched to Badger Decal Setting Solution from Solvaset. It seems to keep the decals a little stiffer while applying but they still snuggle down over the details fine. Either one will do the job though. Fred has some great tips in his thread. One thing I'd add is to do your first decal job on something like a boxcar that won't break your heart if you screw up. It's less painful than on one of those custom painted locos.
I found two sets of the 87-18's at a Discount Model Trains in Addison, TX. I've looked everywhere else around here and I couldn't find any. I'm still looking though!
Good work! I might try a few more shops in the Chicago area because, although I have two more sets, I know I will run out early next year! Stupid Microscale; I hate being a captive customer!
Good work! I might try a few more shops in the Chicago area because, although I have two more sets, I know I will run out early next year! Stupid Microscale; I hate being a captive customer!
I repainted the red on the loco to cover the black that had over run. I did the red again first because it was easier for me to tape this way. I then used the 3M automotive tape to cover my red and to set the line that I wanted. I then used an eraser pen (like a pencil but all eraser) to push and set the tape in the crevices and corners. Over the grills and other sharp and tall drop offs I used the cut the tape and retape trick. After all the red was masked I applied a light coat of Dullcote to the top. After this dried I applied the black.
I only had two very small touch up areas. One of them was so small that I didn't even mess with it. Next time I'm not so sure that I'll use the Dullcote. The black didn't seem to like being sprayed on top of it. It came out OK but it's looks weathered and grimy. A good technique for later but not what I was looking for here.
Try Glosscote next time. Dullcoat is not a good medium for spraying paint over but Glosscoat should give you a good surface without changing the underlying color.
Never tried it dullcoat under black as all my locos are red and white like my avatar but when I apply it I only seal the edge of the tape. I put on a tiny bit to the tape edge with a 0/10 brush. It didn't occur to me to mention that.
My only suggestion is make sure your decals are where you want before you use the Solvaset.....I like to get my decals in position and then dry slightly so they won't move before I use the setting solution. Once the solution is applied, any attempt to move the decal will usually ruin the decal because of how soft the solution makes them.
