[PitViper]

I recently purchased on eBay a decal sheet with tattoos in 1:6 scale for a custom figure. The seller's instruction sheet suggests using a decal setting agent (such as Microset) on the area where the decal will be applied. It also states once it is dry a "sealer" should be applied.

I have no idea what to use for either the setting agent or the sealer. Plus, there isn't a local hobby shop where I could buy these, nor a store like Michael's. Will appreciate any suggestions and alternatives that you can offer.

BTW, I recommend this eBay seller (Bad Mother Tattoos & Customs) 100%. I submitted him pictures of the tattoos I needed (in my case it was Russian criminal/prison tattoos) and within a couple of day he made a sheet with over 50 tattoos for an excellent price. The detail on them is amazing! He shipped very quickly and I'm very happy with the results. Now I can only hope I can put these onto my figures and make them look as good as they do on the decal sheet...:bag

 

[ZombieKev]

Check out this thread. It's about using decals on trains, but the same principles apply: The Difference Between Micro Sol and Micro Set - Model Railroader Magazine - Model Railroading, Model Trains, Reviews, Track Plans, and Forums

Basically, the process is this:
- Glosscoat surface
- Microset surface
- Apply Decal
- Apply Microsol to 'melt' the decal into nooks/crannies
- Repeat if necessary
- Seal (dullcote)

 

[PitViper]

@ZombieKev - this sounds like a pretty complicated process. Where will one get Gloss set, Microset, Microsol, and Dullcote? Are there alternatives to this that one could do with simpler materials?

 

[ZombieKev]

@ZombieKev - this sounds like a pretty complicated process. Where will one get Gloss set, Microset, Microsol, and Dullcote? Are there alternatives to this that one could do with simpler materials?

Amazon should have all of them. Micromark.com might have them all as well.

For dullcote and glosscote, I think Testors are pretty common and cheap. Microset and Microsol are sold in a 2 pack on Amazon.

Also, that process is mainly for best quality extremely obsessive results. You might be able to lay it on and still get excellent results with just microset for example.

 

[PitViper]

Thanks ZombieKev!!! Just before I placed an order on Amazon for all 4 products though I realized I have no idea how to apply them. Can you help me with that please?

 

[ZombieKev]

Thanks ZombieKev!!! Just before I placed an order on Amazon for all 4 products though I realized I have no idea how to apply them. Can you help me with that please?

Sure, but for the Microset and Microsol, it's easier to watch a Youtube video: HOW TO: Apply waterslide decals and use Microset and Microsol - YouTube

For the glosscote and dullcote, it's pretty straight forward:

- Clean the area of the body where you plan to apply the decal (eg, water and a little soap). Let it completely dry.
- If you want, cover the areas that you don't want to spray on. Means less clean up for you later. Use tape, saran wrap, whatever you want to cover up the other parts.
- Spray with glosscote - Go OUTSIDE or in a well-ventilated area. Hold can at least 10 inches away from figure and spray in strokes across the body. You can do it a few times.
- Let it fully dry (up to 24 hours)
- Apply Microset, decal, Microsol as shown in video.
- Let it dry.
- Spray with dullcote - Same process as the glosscote. Remember to do it outside or in an extremely well ventilated area!
- It should dry to the touch within 20 minutes, but won't fully cure (get to maximum durability) for 24 hours.