Old decal problem

[Epeeman]

All,

Currently building the Revell 1/28 Spad XIII kit bought secondhand.  This kit has the Italian markings (from the early 90's I believe) but have noticed that the decals have aged badly and started to crack.

My question is, can these still be used, if so is there something I can do to make things easier getting them onto the model?

Failing that, I will just attempt to get them on and touch up as best I can.

Any advice appreciated.

Regards

Dave

[compressor man]

I have never tried this but I was told that in circumstances like this one could brush on a coat of Future to the decal sheet. This would give a little structural integrity to the old decals. Upon using them you will have to cut them apart because they will be 'connected' together by the coat of Future. Please remember that I have never tried it but have only read about this process on the internet.

Chris

[GAJouette]

  Dave,
I've use a Microscale's Liquid Decal Film for years now. Simply brush it over the suspect decal and allow it to dry well. Depending on what condition the decal is in it may require several coats. Best of luck with your decals my old friend. I'm looking forward to seeing your SPAD XIII thread appear.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette

[Des]

I don't know if it would work but it might be worth while giving the decals a coat of clear lacquer. I use clear lacquer over my home made decals printed on an ink jet printer, the clear lacquer spray seals the ink and allows the decal to be placed in water, I imagine it would have the same effect on your old decals giving them a clear protective coat. This would work in much the same fashion as the suggestions posted by Gregory and compressor man. Whatever method you use it would be wise to be extremely careful when placing the decals, the coating you spray over the decals will only be very thin.

Des.

[Epeeman]

Chris, Gregory and Des -

Thank you for the tips - the pre coating method seems worth a go - watch this space ................

Regards

Dave

[Cimmerian]

  Dave,
I've use a Microscale's Liquid Decal Film for years now. Simply brush it over the suspect decal and allow it to dry well. Depending on what condition the decal is in it may require several coats. Best of luck with your decals my old friend. I'm looking forward to seeing your SPAD XIII thread appear.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette

I've used this stuff as well, it's very good but a little care is needed when using it on really old decals. It does do exactly what you need though.