Tips for applying "wrap around" decals?

[Joetrain59]

 I'm currently working on applying High Ball Graphics L&HR set, https://highballgraphics.com/L-146.htm. The decals that go over the end, and then sides of unit are a bit difficult to handle, due to their size. It's as if I could use another set of hands to help.
 How do you wizards here deal with this?
 ps- largest decals I ever worked with were end stripes, chevrons.
 Thank you,
 Joe D

[peteski]

You could cut the decal up into smaller (more manageable) pieces and apply them one at a time.

[daniel_leavitt2000]

Cut the decals to roughly the size of the sides to fit. Leave a little extra on ends. For this set cut the thick gold decal into two stripes and a "V". The V portion should include the compound curves and about 1mm straight sections on the ends. This will help align the dude decals to the end.

Apply the ends first. Let them dry fully and then apply the stripes. When positioning the end decal, user a straight edge (metal scale ruler its perfect for this), and use the shell features to align the decal. Grab irons help zero in on horizontal summitry. Headlights work well for vertical.

To position the decal I like to use thin BBQ skewers that have been resting in a cup of water for a few minutes. Use a moderate amount of decal solution, just enough to let it move without floating. Always rest your palms on the model and use it as a pivot point to move the skewer in your fingers. Never move your fingers alone, they tend to jump a little too much (at least for me).

[davefoxx]

I'd lightly wrap the other end of the model in a paper towel and stick it into a coffee mug to allow it to stand on end without moving around.  Then, with a liberal amount of decal solution, I would drape the decal over the nose of the model, allowing the decal to fall over each side of the hood.  Align the decal on the end of the hood carefully and then straighten the decals on each side of the nose.

Hope this helps,
DFF

[Lemosteam]

I'd lightly wrap the other end of the model in a paper towel and stick it into a coffee mug to allow it to stand on end without moving around.  Then, with a liberal amount of decal solution, I would drape the decal over the nose of the model, allowing the decal to fall over each side of the hood.  Align the decal on the end of the hood carefully and then straighten the decals on each side of the nose.

Hope this helps,
DFF

Exactly what I was thinking with one additional point.

When the center of the decal is where you want it, roll the corner of a tissue to a point with your thumb and finger and using the point, wick away fluid from the edges of the center of the decal to lock it in place until you align the sides on the hood, then wick them as well (a new tissue or at least a new corner of the old tissue) and let them dry.  Then remove the shell from the cup and apply the Micro Sol or whatever you use to draw them down to the model with each respective surface parallel to the workbench.

[BCR 570]

I'd lightly wrap the other end of the model in a paper towel and stick it into a coffee mug to allow it to stand on end without moving around. 

This helps a lot for end decals.  I use a new roll of toilet paper and put a small foam block at the bottom of the centre tube.  Most cars stick out enough for access to the end.  No chance of it falling over.


Tim

[Santa Fe Guy]

This helps a lot for end decals.  I use a new roll of toilet paper and put a small foam block at the bottom of the centre tube.  Most cars stick out enough for access to the end.  No chance of it falling over.


Tim

I used a coffee mug that has some weight to it so it does not move. Partially fill it with tissues so the loco body just sits inside nice and snug so it does not move. Apply some distilled water to the body and just float the decal onto the nose. Gently position the decal and then gradually wick away the excess water until you have the decal in place. I usually very carefully pat the decal in place with a cotton bud before applying any Solvaset or some other decal setting solution.
Rod.

[Joetrain59]

I have the shell end up in a small Panavise.  Lou D told me he uses a stiffer bristle brush, cut down, as a tool for moving decals into place.  I like the idea of using water first, to help delay the decal from adhering. Going to do the "Pennsy" stripe end decals in a few minutes. Need to look at some pix first for guidance.
 Thank you,
 Joe D