First post by a "newb" here. Been lurking for almost a year. Great site and have learned *SO* much. Have built a bunch of rods but am REALLY struggling with decals. Know that some of sponsors have great service and products for decals, but, I really want to create my own for the flexibility.

I have been using the "decal method" by Dave Rogers, but just cannot get them to work. I worked out the problems that I had with air/bubbles and the last set I did looked great after I put the finish on (flexcoat). But, when I came back to check the next AM, the color had bled/clouded over. I think I am getting enough of the Klear Koat on prior to application, but, just can't get to work.

I was going to try Tom Kirkman's method using paper, and I also have access to a laser printer that I was going to try - just got the laser decal paper. But, I was really curious what others use to make and apply their decals.

Thanks,
Eddie

Eddie -

For what it is worth, I also wanted complete flexibility. I tried inkjets, laser printers, calligraphy pens, etc. on every type of paper with all the different methods and coatings. End result after much time, expense and frustration ... Decal Connection.

FYI, I did have suitable results ... sometimes. I could never achieve consistent results AND it was never easy - two clicks and a few bucks and it is all over but the application.

I make my own customized individual decals as needed. See: [www.shockwaverods.com] for a few examples.

I print on adhesive backed white vinyl medium from Papillio with an inkjet printer. This makes a decal that is almost bullet proof and requires no pre or post preperations.

Just print, apply and coat with epoxy.

My software is Corel Draw and I can put almost anything on a decal including pictures of people, fish, kids, wife, girlfriend etc etc. One is limited only by his imagination.

I have even learned to make a 360 degree decal with paralled edges. Not an easy trick with a tapered rod.

Hope this helps ,or at least gives you some new ideas.

Bobby Feazel

[www.shockwaverods.com]

Conventional wisdom will not open the box.

Thanks, guys.

Jim, that is what I am running into; want to get consistent results. Even my "bad" results are not consistent. I have contacted Decal Connection, and they have been super helpful and nice - very fast turn around on responding to my questions. If I cannot get something that is repeatable and looks "professional" with what I have, going to get them to convert my logo (curently in photoshop and visio) over to the raster image and use them. This is my final attempt at "home made" - which would be great and convenient but if if looks like garbage, it's of no value.

Bobby,
Thanks for the information on the papilio paper. I have noticed the decals on your site before – admirer of your work – but I figured you had some super hi-tech ALPS or similar printer doing those. Very impressive. Can you tell/verify for me this is what you are using? Want to make sure I have this right before I order.

[www.texascraft.com]

If you have a supplier or someone on line you work with, would welcome the information.

Thanks for the help. Looks like you have provided EXACTLY what I have been looking for.

Thanks,
Eddie

Sorry, no ALPS, just a common ole HP.

Your link shows the exact medium I use and I purchase online from them.

If I don't waste too much, my cost is probably around 20 to 30 cents per decal.

Bobby Feazel

[www.shockwaverods.com]

Conventional wisdom will not open the box.

Like Bobby and some others, we make our own.

We use the Testor's "Custom Decal System". Yes, these are thesame people who make the model airplane paints.

These decals can be had in "clear" or "white" paper backing. Testor's makes a complete kit, including the papers, software, and a fixative. The only thing you'll need separately is some Micro Set which youo can order from the same folks as a separate item.

This kit is made to create decals from any inkjet printer, but the better resolution you can produce, the better your decals wil be. We have an HP 7410 for ours. You do not need special inks, special printers, or special anything - just what's in the kit. You can use your own images (jpg is best) and the learning curve is low.

Uncle Russ
Calico Creek Rods

Bobbie where did you get the Papillio paper you use.
Good Wraps Bob

Bob

Try this:

[www.texascraft.com]

Bobby

Thanks Bobby and Russ. I'm going to give both your methods a try.

Robert

Thank you Bobbie. I believe they have what I was looking for
Good Wraps Bob