Time to resurrect this build. Other things in life got priority, but now there is time for modelling again.
8 months ago I made it to first spray of paint. Well, paint went on and with small corrections it looks pretty nicely. Next - lozenge decals...
I was using the decals supplied in the box. They are made in 2019 which is where the top transfer layer can be removed leaving only the paint. No lacquer, no silvering, the look of spray-painted insignia. Put on the decal, apply the decal solution, let it dry (overnight) and using twezers carefully remove the top layer. So goes the theory.
First try was on the bare plastic. Suprisingly it produced the best result. Only small tears when removing the top layer from the applied decal. Yeah, I can do this!
Second try. Plastic with a layer of surfacer on. Otherwise same as above. This time when removing the top layer, larger chunks of paint when with it. Drats! This will have to be redone. And new model is on the way, since there is no spare lozenge supplied. So naturally I took the rest of lozenge to experiment.
Third try. On surfacer with decal solution under the decal in order to improve the adhesion. Otherwise same as above. Wrrriiiiiiinnnkklleeeeeeesssss all over the place. The thing turned into a Lycra/Spandex or such and stretched any and every way imaginable. Eventually I have let it dry and did yet another attempt on removing the top layer. Due to wrinkles, literally half of the decaled wing came off. Strong-headed anyone?
Fourth try. The new kit got in and new decals with it. Back to the beginning, leaving the top layer on. Started with the largest area - the wing. No surfacer, no decal solution underneath. Cut the decal into 3 pieces to make it more manageable. Either way, decals applied, wrinkles again. No matter what I did - more solution, carefully slicing/pinching the wrinkles, more solution. Not to avail.
Ordered yet another kit. And with it, Microsculpt decals.
To be continued...now as a multiple Pfalz build
