top of page

Why you should use gloss clear coat & decal setting solution

e16e330c-ba53-4a53-ac07-22a1f38abb9c.png

Why You Should Apply a Gloss Clear Coat Before Decals

Applying a gloss clear coat before installing water-slide decals is one of the most important steps in achieving a professional-quality model finish.

​

Many decal problems — including silvering, poor adhesion, wrinkling, and lifting edges — are caused by applying decals directly onto flat or rough paint surfaces.

​

A properly cured gloss surface provides the smooth foundation needed for decals to settle correctly and look like they are painted onto the model.

​

Benefits of Using a Gloss Clear Coat

​​

1. Creates a Smooth Application Surface

Flat paints contain microscopic texture and uneven surfaces that can trap air beneath the decal film. This can prevent the decal from making complete contact with the model surface.

A gloss coat fills these tiny imperfections and creates a smooth surface that allows the decal to conform properly.

​

2. Prevents Silvering

“Silvering” occurs when tiny pockets of air become trapped beneath the clear carrier film of a decal. These areas reflect light differently and appear as a white or silver haze around the decal.

Applying decals over a glossy surface greatly reduces the chance of silvering by allowing the decal film to sit tightly against the model.

​

3. Protects the Decal During Application​

A gloss surface reduces friction between the decal and the model. This allows the decal to move more easily during positioning and reduces the risk of:

​

  • Stretching

  • Cracking

  • Chipping

  • Curling edges

  • Damaged printed details​

This is especially important when working with very thin, high-detail decals.

​​

4. Improves Color and Appearance

Decals applied over a gloss finish typically appear sharper and more vibrant because the clear film blends into the smooth surface instead of sitting on top of rough paint.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​

c2514878-62a5-4160-818c-ea9cad47b6d8.png
6da10ecc-d46e-429c-b86e-efaa509857cd.png
2ae17afb-cd96-4586-95ea-e48183210bfc.png

Preparing the Model Before Decaling

​

Step 1 — Apply the Gloss Coat​

Apply a smooth, even gloss clear coat over the area where decals will be placed.

​

Recommended products include:​

  • Tamiya X-22 TS-13 Clear Gloss

  • Testors Gloss Clear

  • Vallejo Gloss Varnish

  • Other quality modeling clear coats

  • DO NOT use Rust-Oleum, or Krylon clear coats.

​​

Avoid applying decals until the gloss coat is completely dry and cured.

​Recommended curing time:​

  • Minimum: 24 hours

  • Best results: 48–72 hours​

A clear coat that feels dry may still be soft underneath.

​

Decal Setting Solution vs. Decal Softening Solution​

These products are often confused, but they perform different functions.

​

Decal Setting Solution​

Setting solution improves adhesion by helping the decal bond to the gloss surface.

It helps:

​

  • Eliminate trapped air

  • Improve long-term adhesion

  • Blend the decal carrier film into the clear coat

  • Create a painted-on appearance

​

Setting solution is recommended for most decals.

​

Decal Softening Solution​

Softening solution is used when a decal must conform to complex shapes.

Use it for surfaces such as:

​

  • Compound curves

  • Rivets

  • Deep panel lines

  • Irregular shapes

​

Examples include aircraft nose sections, curved armor surfaces, and rounded vehicle details.

Softening solution is not normally required for flat surfaces.

​​

Applying Setting Solution Correctly

​​

1. Position the Decal

Place the decal onto the gloss surface and carefully position it.

Do not force the decal into place after it begins drying.

​

2. Remove Excess Water

Use a clean, damp brush to gently remove excess water and air bubbles.

Avoid rubbing the decal with cotton swabs or cloth because thin decals can easily stretch or tear.

​

3. Apply Setting Solution

Apply the setting solution after excess water has been removed but while the decal is still slightly damp.

Do not allow the decal to completely dry before applying the solution.

​

4. Leave the Decal Alone

After applying setting solution, do not touch the decal.

The decal may appear wrinkled or uneven at first. This is normal.

As the solution works, the decal will settle down and conform to the surface.

544e7789-d803-494d-8865-b8bbe79c5f19.png
image_edited_edited.jpg

Important Tips for Best Results​
✓ Always apply decals over a gloss surface.
✓ Allow clear coats to fully cure before decaling.
✓ Use a soft brush instead of cotton swabs to move decals.
✓ Use a new sharp hobby blade when trimming decals.
✓ Do not overwork decals after they begin setting.

✓ Allow decals to dry completely before applying a final protective coat.

​

Final Clear Coat

​After decals have fully dried, apply a final clear coat to protect them and blend them into the model finish.

Depending on the desired appearance:

​

  • Use gloss for aircraft or vehicles with polished finishes.

  • Use satin for lightly weathered subjects.

  • Use flat/matte for most military vehicles and aircraft.

​

A properly applied gloss coat, quality decals, and careful use of setting solution will produce a finish that looks painted rather than applied.

​

​

bottom of page