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I'm working on some Dark Angels, and I've run into a dilemma. On their right shoulder Dark Angels have their tactical symbol as well as a squad number over the top. I'm sure most of you have seen it. The thing is, they are separate transfers!

Can I apply a second transfer over the top of the first once it's dry? My guess would be it would come loose when it gets wet again.

What about if I applied gloss varnish over the first, then did the second transfer? That would mean 3 layers of varnish! Gloss varnish, 1st decal, gloss varnish, second decal, then finally matt varnish to seal it all in and take away the shine. That seems a bit much. Like would it look like there is a layer of glass/fibreglass on their shoulder pads?

Anyone have any experience with either of these scenarios? Otherwise I'm going freehand.

Yes you can put transfers on top of other transfers. I don't think multiple coats of varnish are need, but three coats of varnish on a model will not negatively effect it (I use multiple coats of different varnishes on just about everything I paint).

Thanks!

 Kavish wrote:
I'm working on some Dark Angels, and I've run into a dilemma. On their right shoulder Dark Angels have their tactical symbol as well as a squad number over the top. I'm sure most of you have seen it. The thing is, they are separate transfers!

Can I apply a second transfer over the top of the first once it's dry? My guess would be it would come loose when it gets wet again.

What about if I applied gloss varnish over the first, then did the second transfer? That would mean 3 layers of varnish! Gloss varnish, 1st decal, gloss varnish, second decal, then finally matt varnish to seal it all in and take away the shine. That seems a bit much. Like would it look like there is a layer of glass/fibreglass on their shoulder pads?

Anyone have any experience with either of these scenarios? Otherwise I'm going freehand.

Yep, I regularly use multi-layer decals- usually a guide outline for painting a light background on a dark surface, then the overlaying design. Each layer should be applied and sealed separately, including relevant decal solvent work. Airbrushing the gloss coats keeps layers thin. You really can't tell once it's done unless your decal film is very thick - its the decal film, not the paint/varnish that accounts for about 90% of the thickness of the decal layer.