Clear coating over waterslide decals?

Discussion in 'Fettling Forum' started by Scott D, Oct 16, 2021.

  1. Scott D

    Scott D United Kingdom Subscriber

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    Apologies, this is a double post but am hoping for responses from all, not just those following my Veritas thread.

     
  2. Fireexit1 United Kingdom

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    I recall spraying enamel lacquer over waterslides when restoring and old racing pushbike. But that was 42 years ago and paint was different then.
     
  3. Scott D

    Scott D United Kingdom Subscriber

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    Thanks, as I’ve been advised, I’ve decided to play it safe and run a trial on a spare fount. Should know more tomorrow!

    6C7F59DC-DA7C-4830-A706-BF43FD67D750.jpeg
     
  4. Tony Press

    Tony Press Australia Subscriber

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    I’ve done it many times to old waterslide transfers with no problems- — using a spray can of automotive clear coat. I do it to protect the decal before working on the tank.

    Tony
     
  5. Scott D

    Scott D United Kingdom Subscriber

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    How about new water slide transfers?
     
  6. Tony Press

    Tony Press Australia Subscriber

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    I’ve not done it to a new one.

    Tony
     
  7. Scott D

    Scott D United Kingdom Subscriber

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    Well I’ll learn something tomorrow. At least I have spares!
     
  8. Ole Larson

    Ole Larson Subscriber

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    Hi,

    Applying clear coat to decals is a normal part of my business.
    There are two types now available.
    Water Slide & Rub Transfer

    Water slide decals;
    A pain to work with. This is because they require one to put a small pool of water onto a surface that ideally should be dry and free of water. We do high gloss piano's, restore old vintage auto gauge faces, antique Gramophones' etc.... The water slide decal company generally supplied two with each order because the likelihood of tearing or folding over and messing up the decal was rather high. Once transferred to the pool of water over the surface one must wait for this to dry. They can move around while waiting to dry on their own.....Cause damage to the high gloss finish below etc....

    Rub Transfer decals;
    These are much more easy to work with! simply position the revers printed transfer over the exact area you want it, and burnish it on top. This action transfers it to the new surface ready for clear coat.

    When ordering decals I would always advise rub transfer.
    We now only receive one transfer from the decal company for each one ordered...

    Custom decal transfer work can be ordered from Decals Unlimited in Minnesota.

    Best,

    Brian
     
  9. Scott D

    Scott D United Kingdom Subscriber

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    Thanks Brian, I’ve not heard of rub transfers. Sounds like that could be the way to go in future!
     
  10. David Shouksmith

    David Shouksmith India Founder Member

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    They sound like stickers to me. Perhaps they're a bit thinner than the conventional type...
     
  11. WimVe

    WimVe Subscriber

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    I remember the water slide decals from the Airfix plane model kits. :lol:

    Yup long time ago.
     
  12. Ole Larson

    Ole Larson Subscriber

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    David,
    They sound like stickers, but are not.
    Here is an example transfer onto a rare 1934 MG PA dash gauge known as a Mile-O-Meter.
    First positioning, next fasten into place, Burnishing w/ wooden tool, transfer complete ready for clear coat.
     

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