Select the necessary decal motifs. Working on wood, metals, plastic etc., plan placement by arranging them on the project temporarily. This will prevent disappointment with poorly placed designs which cannot be corrected after final assembly.
Warm water and a squeegee are used to apply the decal. Add DECAL SOFTENER to warm water. DECAL SOFTENER reacts chemically with the decal coating, allowing it to ease and stretch. Use approximately one tablespoon (more or less), depending upon the amount of stretch required. DECAL SOFTENER is a product of Alberta-Meitin decals. A squeegee is especially important in removing all the water from the decal film. The squeegee has a smooth flat edge and is firmer than a cloth or paper towel. Because of this, it provides excellent results when properly used.
Make a solution of DECAL SOFTENER and white glue such as Sobo, Elmers, or Aleenes. Mix a solution of equal parts until the solution is thin like glycerine.
Paint an area a little larger than the area of the decal on the piece you have chosen to work on. Let it dry.
Working with one motif at a time, immerse the decal in the prepared warm water. The decal will curl tightly. It will then relax and begin to uncurl, indicating the adhesive between the decal film and the backing paper is beginning to soften. Immediately remove the decal and place it on a smooth, sealed surface like a palette. DO NOT allow the decal to completely soften and float off the backing paper while still in the water. Let the moistened decal remain on the palette for a few moments until the adhesive has softened. When the decal slides freely on the backing paper, it is ready for application.
Paint another coat of the solution where the decal is to be placed, covering the same area painted before. Immediately position the softened decal, still on the backing paper, on this wet area. Carefully slide the backing paper out from under the decal. Wipe over the decal with a soft damp sponge to help it conform to the shape of the project, easing and stretching to smooth out any wrinkles. To assure good adherence, firmly but gently remove excess water from under the decal using a squeegee. With firm steady pressure, wipe from the center of the design out over the edge, forcing out the moisture and excess glue. Keep the squeegee moist to avoid tearing the film Gradually work all the way around the decal, wiping from the center toward edges (like spokes on a wheel), until the decal is firmly adhered. To test adherence, try sliding the decal with thumb pressure, as if repositioning it. If all moisture has been removed, the decal will remain secure.
With a damp sponge, remove all the excess solution from around the decal. LET DRY THOROUGHLY. This is a very important, especially with wood. After dry, the project should be sprayed with sealer or may be finished with gesso, decoupage finish, or a similar finish.
By BJE
ESP-P © #201
This page is copyright© 1988, by Edwards Decals, Bettye J Edwards