How to apply waterslide decals

What you need to apply waterslide decals


  -Waterslide decal paper

  -Small medicine cup filled with water

  -Tweezers

  -Q-tip (one side wet and one side dry)

  -Toothpick (optional)


How to apply waterslide decals


  -Cut out decal with a hobby knife (this is better than using scissors because the hobby knife moves
  more easily)

  -Hold waterslide decal with tweezers under water for 5-7 seconds until there is a slight color change
  (a slightly darker blue) and it will wilt.

  -Use the wet side of the q-tip to move it off of the paper to the plastic model location that you want
  it on.

  -Once the waterslide decal is in the correct place, swith q-tip to the dry side to remove excess water
  and to secure the decal into place.


Tips to remember


  -Do not move the waterslide decal a lot because they can easily tear and are hard to repair because
  they are so small.

  -Do not spill your water

How to Apply Stickers

How to apply stickers:

1.  The parts you are applying the stickers to.
2.  Sticker sheet.
3.  Tweezers.
4.  Steady hands.

Differences between sticker sheets, water slides, and dry transfer decals
1.  Stickers have a border around the actual sticker and a blank back.
2.  Dry transfers are a see-through paper that feels waxy.
3.  Water slides are on blue paper and have writing on the back of the sheet.

How to wash Bandai model kits.

PSA:  Do Not put your Gunpla in washing machines, dishwashers, or dryers.

You will need:
1.  A toothbrush you aren't using for your mouth
2.  Any dish soap you have on hand.

Items that are helpful:
1.  Shoebox size plastic containers to hold runners and gundam parts in.  This way, if any small parts come off, they will stay in the container.

Why wash your Gunpla:
1.  It is easier for the following items to stick to Gundam toys:
        a.  Stickers
        b.  Decals
        c.  Dry transfers
        d.  Water slides
        e.   Paint

2.  Nothing will interact with anything else
         a.  Some older model kits have a chemical from the plastic injection that would linger so if you
              paint it, the model itself would crumble because of the chemical reaction.

How to wash
1.  Use a drain stopper so small pieces don't fall down the drain.
2.  Brush with toothbrush using soapy water.
3.  Rinse with water.
4.  Air dry on towels once soap is rinsed off.

How to Remove Nub Marks

3 Ways to Smooth out Nub Marks

1.  Nail Files.  Use small rocking back and forth motions.  DO NOT "Cheese-Grate"  your Gunpla.

2.  Hobby Knives.  It is best to point the knives away from you when cutting until you get used to the pressure needed to "peel"  the layers away like an onion.    Use the curved blade, especially on plastic, because it is more durable since it has more surface area than just a straight edge, which will provide a more rugged cut.  This is ION doll's preferred method to use.

3.  Sand Paper.  This is the best method to use to get things like paint to glide on easily and stay on after it is applied.  This method is very time consuming.  If this is what you want to do use 400 grit, then 600 grit, then 1000 grit progressively.  Always remember:  DO NOT Cheese-Grate your Gundam Toys.

How to Cut Gundam Toys

There are 3 types of cutters (nippers) within everyone's price range: 

1.  Lower Class and cheapest can be found at your neighborhood tool stores.  You can also use nail clippers.

2.  Middle Class are the Gundam Planet nippers. 

3.  High class nippers, aka the Godhand nippers, can be found on Hobbylink Japan or Amazon.

Cutting Tips

1.  Give enough space between the actual part and the gate (tree or spruce).  

2.  Have a small cup to catch small pieces that you cut off once they are out of the gate.

3.  Use the flat side of the nipper to cut against the part.  That way, you get the least amount of nub marks.