Instructions for Navwar 1-3000 deck decals
Tips for preparing Navwar castings
I have found that Navwar castings can exhibit slight to significant variations between individual pieces. Due to these inconsistencies, it is important to dry test-fit the deck decals before soaking them to ensure proper alignment and fit.
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The castings may also contain imperfections such as cracks, surface irregularities, or divots in the deck area. If a decal is applied over these defects, the imperfections will remain visible and can become more pronounced once the decal has dried and conforms to the surface.
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In the example below, the deck decal appears wavy in several areas due to irregularities in the casting underneath. There is also a noticeable deep divot in the second elevator, which affects the final appearance of the decal.
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Carefully inspecting and preparing the casting before applying decals will help achieve the best possible finish and a more realistic appearance.
There are several simple ways to correct these casting defects. For larger holes, cracks, or deep imperfections, modeling putty can be applied to fill and smooth the damaged areas before finishing.
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For uneven or wavy decks with multiple low spots, I use a thick UV-curing clear nail polish. By applying several thin layers and fully curing each layer under a UV nail lamp, the surface can gradually be built up and leveled. This method works especially well for correcting shallow depressions while maintaining the deck’s overall detail.
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A small UV nail lamp can be purchased online for around $14 and is a useful tool for many modeling projects. It can also be used with UV-curing glue for applications such as attaching aircraft to larger-scale aircraft carriers or securing small components with a strong, precise bond.
After the divots have been filled, use progressively finer grits of nail files to carefully sand the surface until the entire deck is perfectly even and level. Once the deck has been smoothed, apply your primer coat. The result will be a flawless, uniform deck surface ready for painting or decal application