miscmini 
writes:
In this Workbench article, I'll complete work on my GFI N-scale Hurricanes. I'll be applying decals, doing a bit of weathering, and coating the minis with a matte-finish.
References:
Squadron/Signal Publications, Hurricane Walk Around
Marek Rys, Mushroom Model Magazine Special, Hawker Hurricane
Arco-Aircam Aviation Series, No 14, Finnish Air Force 1918-1968
Tools:
- an old paint brush
- foam brush
- sharp scissors
- compass (drafting)
- sandpaper
- toothpick
- tweezers (smooth, flat tip)
Supplies:
- Future floor polish
- Krylon Crystal Clear Matte Finish
- Micro Set
- Micro Sol
- bowl of warm water
- damp tissue
Prior to getting started with the decal process, I made sure that the paint had time to dry thoroughly.
Decals tend to adhere and look better when they're applied to a gloss finish. To start the decal process, I normally apply two or three coats of Future floor polish. I follow the directions on the label with respect to time between coats. On small projects like these minis, I usually apply thin coats of Future with a foam brush or foam applicator. On larger projects, I'll apply the Future with an airbrush.
Here's a shot of the minis with three coats of Future on the surfaces that will host decals:
While I'm waiting for the last coat of Future to completely dry, I collect the decals and inspect them.
When I inspect the decals, I'm looking to see if they are individual decals, or if all of the decals are part of one big decal sheet. If they're individual decals, I can normally see the edge of the clear carrier film that covers each decal. If you don't see a distinct edge of a clear carrier film, you probably have one big sheet and will have to cut out each decal that you want to use.
The other thing I'm looking for are cracks or splits in the decal. If I see cracks or splits - or if I'm concerned that the decal may come apart in the process - I'll spray the sheet with a thin protective coating. There are products made specifically for this, but I just give the sheet a quick spray of Krylon Crystal Clear Gloss. This will keep the decal from coming apart, but it will require one to cut out each decal - and one may have to soak the decal a bit longer.
Here are the decals I'll be using:
True North Miniatures provided me with some 1/144 scale Finnish decals. I've gone through my other stock of decals, and have found some Scale Specialties N-scale decals for British aircraft. I'm working on some Typhoons as well, and am going to give some I-94 Enterprises' invasion strips a shot. The I-94 decals are for 1/285 and 1/300 scale minis, but the larger strips look like they might work on a 1/144 scale mini.