Steve W. et al --
The simple answer is that decals are easier to apply but harder to master.
Decals from different vendors use differing film thicknesses. Thick films are
harder to hide and require more decal solvent to snuggle them down. Thin films
are very fragile and difficult to handle, but snuggle easily. They also
disintegrate if just a tad too much solvent is used. Air trapped beneath
decals causes bubbles and/or poor adhesion, leading to a speckled or reflective
appearance. A continuous film of both water and solvent must remain beneath
the decal when it begins to dry.
Dry transfers of course leave no film because there is no film. You must be
careful not to move the carrier sheet while burnishing the transfers. It's
more difficult to snuggle dry transfers down over details like rivets and
simulated weld edges.
The surface must be glossy and clean with either method. And aftet they are
applied, both require a clear overspray to protect them from wear and handling.
My preference is decals for stripes and larger pieces, and dry transfers for
ready-to-apply lettering. However, for lettering that must be composed of
individual alphabet letters, nothing beats decals. You can shove them around
until they line up properly, whereas dry transfers can't be adjusted/aligned
after they're down.
Dick Karnes
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