A Simple Guide to Applying Water-Slide Transfers to Model Vehicles

I enjoy constructing Warhammer model tanks for my Imperial Guard Army. I have spent many happy hours making and painting each tank or APC and I have found there is no better way to apply unit insignia, vehicle badges and other such markings than using a transfer. There are literally hundreds of different designs to choose from and since each tank kit is supplied with a large sheet in the box, there is no shortage either. The process described below can easily be applied to any type of similar model, whether it is a model aeroplane, boat or building.
I apply transfers after I have finished highlighting the tank and before the weathering stage. This way the unit badge looks more realistic as the area the dirt, mud or grease weathering etc covers where the transfer is placed. By the process of trial and elimination I have worked out the best way of applying water-slide transfers;
The transfer is cut out from the paper, leaving three or four millimetres around the edge, and then placed into a saucer or small lid containing clean tap water. Brush the area selected on the tank with a small amount of water. This will allow you to move the transfer to its correct position. Most transfers will be ready to use after about 40 seconds. Use a pair of tweezers to pick up the paper and slide the transfer onto the surface of the tank using a dry clean paintbrush and then adjust as necessary and then press gently onto the transfer to make it stick to the surface. The transfer may float off the backing sheet if left too long in the water, if this happens use a piece of shiny plastic to place underneath the transfer and apply in the normal way. Whilst the transfer is still wet it is possible to remove any blemishes or bubbles by gently pushing onto the surface with a small paintbrush. Allow the transfer at least one hour to dry - I often leave it overnight before applying thin layer of varnish to protect it. Weather the vehicle as required.
It is very easy to improve the transfer by cutting the paper as necessary. If the transfer is the wrong colour try painting the required colour onto the transparent margin of the backing paper and apply as normal. It is also possible to highlight the transfer with paint in the same way as painting a figure or tank. This requires considerable time and a steady hand - no change there then!!