I decided to take the big step of getting decal setting solution and the only one I could get was Mr Mark Softer.

The only english on the bottle is the name - everything else is Japanese. in which I am illiterate. Does anyone know the "proper" method for using this stuff?

I tried it on the AM Stormovik with mixed success - using the kit decals.

The method I used was place some on the surface to be decalled, apply decal and with a paint brush remove lumps bumps and bubbles, then apply some more over the surface of the decal and let it dry. Some decals conformed nicely to the panel detail and others failed to conform at all.......

Just curious.

Brian

Your "assumed method " sounds good to me , it's the same way I would use MircoSet or any other setting solution. Were the kit decals kind of thick ? Even MicroSet and MicroSol don't work in all situations with kit decals particularly. Don't throw it out, just try it again later with other decals, if your still not satisfied look for Testors Decal Set or MicroSet. Best of Luck.
Remember you can also use Future to hold down pesky decals.

Instructions from Microset:

1.Brush Microset on the model where the decal is to be applied, then dip decal into water and slide off backing paper into position on the model.

2. Carefully brush more Microset on the decal.

3. Wait a few moments for the decal to soften then press the decal down with a ice of moist paper towel.

I think it's the same procedure.

Mr Mark Softer is the second part of a 2 part system, the same as most decal solutions. Part 1 is Mr Mark Setter. The instructions on the Mr Mark Setter bottle (blue) read:
1. For decals, Mr Mark Setter both softens and strengthens adhesivness. ( I take this to mean softens the decal and strengthens the adhesive)
2. Mr Mark Setter is applied to position the decal over the area.
3. Apply the decal.
4. You can apply Mr Mark Softer on the decal when necessary. ( I take this to mean apply it if the decal needs more help to snuggle down )
I haven't used these products, yet, but I have heard that they work wonderfully on Japanese decals.
Basically it looks like they are applied the same way as all the other setting solutions. Take a look at my artical on this subject Decal Dilemas
Mal

Guys thanks for the quick replies.

CRS they are the Accurate Miniatures decals and seem pretty thin compared to Tamiya and Airfix.

Shonen - yep that's pretty much what I did.

Holdfast - I didn't realise this was part 2 of a 2 part system. Thanks for the translation. And the excellent article which I have read previously b- but studied again.

I live in Mackay Central Queensland and the local Toys R Us (only model shop now) didn't have any decal setting solutions. I was lucky to go to Brisbane (our capital) for work 2 weeks ago and got to visit 1 shop only and this was the only thing they had.

Having read so much about micro Sol & Set that is what I was chasing.

Stormovik was going in Club Comp in 10 days time - now I think it will be display only - and from the port side which doesn't look too bad.

Obvuiously (like all new techniques) more practice is needed.

regards

Brian

Oldtimers use vinegar. If you happen to have Microset, it'll smell like one.

Close!
It's not really a "2 part system", but simply two strengths of the same product. Mr. Mark Softer is "stronger" than Mr. Mark Setter, so if your decals don't respond to Setter, give Softer a shot. I've found both to be pretty weak on most decals, so I only use Softer these days.

The aforementioned application methods are correct.
The directions in Japanese on the bottle I'm looking at right this moment say:

"Apply Mr. Mark Softer to the area where the decal is to be applied.
Apply decal to the area where Mr. Mark Softer was applied.
Use a soft cloth to remove excess liquid and let dry.
Re-apply Mr. Mark Softer to the decal if necessary.
If air bubbles occur, prick them with a sharp pin and re-apply Mr. Mark Softer.
Thin Mr. Mark Softer with water if necessary."

Hope this helps!

Shado1

Thanks for the info and translation.

Brian