11/12/05
About ALPS decals and the decal paper...

The decals I currently produce are printed on an ALPS printer.  Remember that the surface of your model should be smooth and glossy before you attempt to apply the decals.  Application of the decals is very similar to silk-screened decals, but unlike silk-screened decals, the carrier film covers the entire sheet.  You must trim around the decals as closely as possible to eliminate the carrier film.  The carrier film is also extremely thin, and great care must be used when transferring the decal to the model.  This thin carrier film is what will allow the decal to tightly bond to the surface of your model and practically eliminate silvering.  Use room-temperature or lukewarm water to dip the decal; do not use warm or hot water.   15 or 20 seconds in the water is all it will take to soak the backing paper.  Wait a minute or two before trying to move the decal from the backing paper onto the model.  You should apply a small amount of decal solution, water, or Future to the surface of the model to receive the decal and help in getting the position just right.  These decals work very well with decal solutions such as MicroSol and MicroSet, but please first test your particular solution on a scrap decal, such as the sheet identification lettering.  Unfortunately, like any other water-slide decal, the thin carrier film will sometimes become brittle with age.  The first decal you cut from the sheet should be a portion from the sheet identification lettering.  Use it as a test, and if you see any signs of cracking in the carrier film, put a coat of Microscale's liquid decal film on the decals you intend to use.  This will ensure you can get the decals onto the model with the least amount of trouble.  If you have any questions regarding the application of these decals, I'll be happy to help you.  See my contact information on the home page.