CUSTOM DECALS USING INKJET DECAL PAPER

go to Mimetic Gloss INDEX
go to BEGINNER'S HOBBY AND CRAFTS GUIDE

MAKING CUSTOM DECALS WITH MICRO-MARK'S INKJET DECAL PAPER
This page is part review, part how-to/pictorial.

PREPARATION: The first step is to gather all the materials necessary for this project. This includes the decal paper, either clear or white background, which can be ordered from Micro-Mark, a fixative such as dull-cote, and of course, your computer with suitable graphics program and color inkjet printer.

STEP ONE: Create the design using your graphics software. There are basically two types of programs, bitmaps (pixels - programs like Photoshop), and vector graphics (groups of mathematical objects - Illustrator, CorelDRAW!, CAD, etc). For crisper decals even at small scale, I would recommend using the latter type of program. The only downside is you will need to color match the background color to your design color to your printer color.

STEP TWO: Print the decals using your color inkjet printer. I find using the "special coated paper" setting usually works best..

STEP THREE: After the printed decal paper is dry, coat very well with a clear gloss coat spray paint (acrylic). In fact, apply 2 or 3 coats. Let dry very thoroughly

STEP FOUR: Cut out the decals with sharp scissors or X-Acto.

STEP FIVE: Immerse the decal in water for 10 seconds. Remove and place on absorbent cloth. Let stand for approximately 30 seconds.

STEP SIX: Make sure the application surface is clean. Slide the decal off the backing paper onto the application surface. Gently blot out any trapped air with a cotton swab or absorbent, lint-free cloth. Air dry. Use decal set to soften the decal for irregular surfaces if necessary. Decal set should be used sparingly because it basically breaks down the decal, making it more pliant. Too much decal set will disintegrate the decal. Let the decal set evaporate. Do not blot it dry.

STEP SEVEN: Once dry, apply a clear gloss coat or two over the applied decal.

STEP EIGHT: If the decal is too glossy following the gloss coat protective spray, spray over with a dull coat.