Gloss coat under decals

[Union Pacific 428]

Hi all,

I am getting ready to apply some UP Microscale decals to a factory finished Spectrum 2-8-0. Do I need to add a gloss coat under the areas I’m adding decals? Also, if so can it be brushed on? 

Thanks! 

[wvg_ca]

a gloss coat is smoother, easier for the decal to stick on, less chance to get that bit of gray / silver under there ...

but not -absolutely- nessecary

 

[SeeYou190]

The surface should be glossy. I spray gloss coat onto my Spectrum unlettered steam locomotives first.

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I lay the locomotive on its side and spray the surface. I let it dry overnight and do the other side. This gives a better coat.

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Mask off all of the mechanicals.

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This is a Spectrum 4-8-2 that has Gloss Coat and decals applied, but has not been Dull Coated yet.

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-Kevin

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[PennCentral99]

Union Pacific 428

Do I need to add a gloss coat under the areas I’m adding decals? 

Thanks! 

I would recommend putting down a layer of gloss coat. No guarantee the factory finish is smooth and putting down a layer of gloss will reduce the chances of "silvering".

Union Pacific 428

Also, if so can it be brushed on?

Depends on what you're using as a gloss coat, some may leave brush strokes. I use Pledge Floor Finish as a gloss coat. It is self leveling; therefore, it can be applied with a brush and won't leave strokes. However, I usually use an airbrush to apply it.

Terry

[NHTX]

     I too use Pledge floor polish as a base for decal application, since it is a clear, gloss acrylic.  I apply the thinnest possible localized coat using a piece of make-up sponge instead of a brush and let it dry overnight.  Apply your decals per instruction and allow adequate drying time.  When dry, apply your final clear coat and, weathering if desired.

[Union Pacific 428]

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the help. 

[carl425]

I like the Microscale Gloss under decals.  You can't go wrong using the stuff made by the folks that make the decals.

[doctorwayne]

No one has mentioned it, but if you're applying a gloss coat (or any paint) it's a good idea to wash the item first.  Dish detergent and not-too-hot water works well, followed by a thorough rinse and air drying, overnight if necessary.

Once the gloss coat is applied (I use Testors' Glosscote, thinned with ordinary lacquer thinner and applied with an airbrush) allow it to dry completely - a good indication that it's fully cured is when there's no odour from the painted item.  This helps to ensure that decal setting solution will not affect the coating.

Once the decals have been applied and are fully-set, it's a good idea to apply another coat of gloss over the entire item.  This ensures that the gloss of the decals will be identical to the gloss on which it was applied - many times, that gloss is not the same, and it will be noticeable on the finished model. 
If you're doing these applications with an airbrush, once that application is dry-to-the-touch, you can apply a coat of clear matte or semi-gloss, as is your preference.

Wayne