Thursday, May 2, 2013

Finished decals application on the body

Finally an update for this model. Decals were applied to the body according to reference photos. Despite reports about problems with Fujimi decals, they work just fine for me. I prefer to use warm water and Micro-Set solution while positioning decals. I found Fujimi decals reacting well to Micro-Set and Micro-Sol. Flat decals, like those Shell logos on side pods, are always problematic over highly curved surfaces. That would be my only complain, but it's generic and not specific to Fujimi decals. As evident on the photo, I've put body panels together and used masking tape to hold them. That trick allows me to align decals properly, according to shape of the car and reference photos. If decals are applied on separate panels, there is a chance to get alignment wrong. Fortunately there aren't that many decals on modern Ferrari F1 cars. So, decal application job is not too hard. I still have wing elements to complete next.

I'm not settled yet on use of CF decals for this model. Usually I don't bother with plastic kits. However on some of the wing elements applying CF decals might be easier then complex masking and painting of SG black. Also there is less risk of ruining paint job, if I use decals instead of SG black paint.

I really cannot understand people who don't like decal application. I've spent months preparing and painting, and only few hours applying decals. Yet model never looked better then now. Decals really make it alive for me and enjoy process and results a lot.

1 comment:

  1. Looks great so far. I fully agree with you on the decal application, I enjoy it and love how it brings the model to life. I have to admit I am scared as hell with some at times but its not all meant to be easy. Again great looking work.

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