Applying Water Slide Decals to HG and RG Kits: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick answer

Applying water slide decals to HG and RG kits is straightforward: prepare the surface, soak the decal, slide it into place, and seal it with a top coat. This guide walks you through each step for a clean, professional finish.

Step-by-step water slide decal application

1. Prepare the surface: Ensure the plastic is clean and free of dust, oil, or mold release residue. Wash the parts with mild soap and water if needed, then let them dry completely. A glossy top coat before decaling helps the decal adhere and reduces silvering. A clean, glossy surface prevents bubbles and silvering.
2. Cut out the decal: Use a hobby knife or scissors to cut close to the edge of the decal design you want to apply. Leave a small margin of clear film around the artwork to make handling easier. Cutting close to the design reduces excess clear film that can cause a halo effect.
3. Soak the decal: Dip the decal in room-temperature water for 10–15 seconds, or until the decal slides freely on its backing paper. Do not oversoak, or the decal may lose adhesion. Test the decal's movement by gently nudging it with tweezers after 10 seconds.
4. Position the decal: Slide the decal onto the model using a damp cotton swab or brush. Position it carefully; once the decal touches the surface, it becomes harder to move. Use a drop of setting solution to soften the decal and help it conform to panel lines. Work quickly but gently—once the decal starts drying, repositioning can tear it.
5. Blot and remove excess water: Gently roll a dry cotton swab from the center of the decal outward to push out air bubbles and excess water. Do not rub, as this can shift or damage the decal. Blotting, not rubbing, keeps the decal intact and bubble-free.
6. Seal the decal: After the decal has dried completely (at least 24 hours), apply a clear top coat (gloss, semi-gloss, or matte) to protect the decal and blend it into the surrounding plastic. This step is essential for durability, especially on frequently handled parts. Skipping the top coat leaves the decal vulnerable to scratching and peeling.

Products used in this guide

• DL HG Moon Gundam Water Slide Decals: Water slide decal type for smooth, durable application. These decals are designed to lay flat and resist peeling, giving your HG Moon Gundam a clean, long-lasting finish.

  

• Evolution Studios HG / RG 1/144 Crossbone Gundam X-1 / X-2 Water Slide Decals: Includes markings to customize your model's appearance. The multiple marking options let you add unique details to your HG or RG Crossbone Gundam, making it stand out on the shelf.