Decal information

[rkk]

Where are people sourcing decals, or are they printing them at home?

[SuperFly]

http://www.pattosplace.com is a good source. The website is whacky, but he will custom make them at mini Z scale, and the quality os good. I get the waterslide type, but I know arch2b uses the vinyl type with great results. Shipping from Australia can take a while.

I also make my own with waterslide decal paper and an pretty decent inkjet printer. I get both white and clear decal paper. They have their limitations, as you can't print white ink, and you can't cut the edge of the image part of the decal, need to leave a margin. I sometimes cut a white shape, and then put a clear background decal over it.

Also, https://www.spotmodel.com/index.php?cPath=37_475

[arch2b]

There are some places in HK showing up at GT55, HRC, imported by Kenon that design to 1:28 scale. There is spotmodel.com as well.

Shipping from Pattos has gotten a bit ridiculous in the pandemic. It was about 4 weeks pre-pandemic and not about 8-12+ weeks. If you prefer waterslide, I would look to the other sites as well. Be warned though, shipping from HK is also not cheap nor quick either.

Another plus for Pattos, he will customize livery upon request as well. I've had several custom color changed, color inverted, etc.

[rkk]

Thanks for all of the information. What are the pros and cons of vinyl vs water slide?

[arch2b]

Pros for vinyl
-much more durable, more scratch resistant in daily use
-will not tear with application
-not easily to damage by paints
-no additional protective coatings needed

Cons for vinyl
-will not contour to same degree as waterslide
-leaves noticeable edge if your not trimming as tight as practical to graphics
-not as easily repositionable, you can peel back up but each time is less sticky