[Hallicrafters] How to apply decals, Halli or otherwise

[Mike Everette]

Decals work very well when properly applied.

Been there/done this many, many times when building
scale model aircraft, in particular.  Most model
aircraft paints are a flat finish, so I know this does
work!

If you will use a model railroading product called
"Walthers Solvaset," the decals can be applied over a
dull finish.  

First, dampen the panel with plain water.  Slide the
decal onto the panel and position it; a small camel
hair brush works well but you might have a straight
pin and X-Acto knife (SHARP curved blade) handy too.

                      ATTENTION
Another product for this purpose is "Champ Decal-Set,"
sold by Champion Decal Co. for model railroad use. 
It's a little less strong than Solvaset, and a little
more forgiving of greenhorn mistakes.

When the decal is positioned, apply the Solvaset
around the edges of the decal and let it work
underneath.  The decal may wrinkle.  Don't freak out. 
Just use the brush VERY carefully to smooth it out, as
it dries.  

Also apply the Solvaset ON TOP of the decal.  It will
seep through the film and really make the decal
tightly adhere to the paint.  

If you see silvering in the surface it means there is
air beneath the decal.  In that case, prick the
bubbles with the pin or the knife blade tip -- DON'T
drag the knife over the decal, and "rock" the curved
X-Acto blade over the decal to open up more paths for
the Solvaset to soak through.

Apply more Solvaset if needed.

Keep smoothing the decal surface but work CAREFULLY. 
This process may take a while, so BE PATIENT.

Once the decal is almost dry, and stable, CAREFULLY
blot it with a Q-tip if wrinkles remain.  You may need
a little more Solvaset.

When everything is dry, (And this could take several
hours, maybe even 24 hours) GENTLY wash away the
Solvaset residue with water and the small brush.  Blot
up the wet.

When everything is GOOD and dry, after all this, spray
the panel with Testors Dullcote, an aerosol.

You won't see the decal film.

Heyyyyy -- where are the decals available?  I could
use some for an S-76 and an R-46 speaker.  Are they
green (preferably) or white, or both?

73

Mike
WA4DLF





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