Archive for Freesteam For collectors and enthusiasts of all steam engines
 


       Freesteam Forum Index -> The 3Rs... Restoration, renovation and refurbishment!
Spokesmann

If you're serious about restoration....

...you need some of these:


I have been producing decals for some time (they seem to be a popular topic just now!). I have been gradually refining my artwork (all drawn from originals) both in actual authentic detailing (font/size/graphic detailing) but also method of manufacture. I want to share with you some new ones I have been developing. I have sold many custom sheets of decals, all built to client specifications (these will continue) and all output to the highest standards. These are a bit of a departure in that these incorporate metallic backgrounds with authentic designed trade marks on top. Each one is hand finished and I am aiming these specifically at restorers who want the ultimate in reproduction decals. These will be supplied as a minimum order of 1 up to... depends on you!! Im still sourcing metallic paper from different manufacturers to get the variance I need so this is work in progress...

But here we have my first production tests, hope you like them. More designs will be added to this type as I adjust and modify artwork accordingly. So Im also looking at Weeden, Bowman Hobbies boats, Hobbies ete etc...

Enjoy.













Constructive comments and suggestions greatly appreciated!
Mamod Collector

Very nice Mike, you need a Stuart decal in your line up
I dont think Stuart ever made water slide decals, but I would sure like one for my Stuart boiler  Smile
Spokesmann

Ill look into it Mike no doubt. Im still experimenting with this lot at the moment and my test have thrown up a few minor troubles, I have plenty more idea to try yet though, will keep you posted.
Spokesmann

I have been experimenting further today. Having found the right type of metallic paper, I am now experimenting with the printing. These are just about there now, I have lasered directly onto the metallic paper at the highest res possible. The results are better than using the decal film on the paper. I have some final artwork adjustments to the Bowman decal and Ill be there. I will be updating the pages on my website advertising the decals. These will need to be fixed using water based varnish and maybe a light glue. Firebox applications remain a problem due to the heat, of course unless you require a decal for a shelf queen or an engine that will remain unfired. I will be offering the decals in either opaque white backing - fine for Luton and Bowman. transparent backing fine for Luton and applications onto brass, and finally metallic paper (130gsm) for all applications. Ill make this clear on some new pages on the site.

Here are some images of my experiments thus far...


This image shows that the paper has a metallic sheen - just enough for early Mamod decal - perfect gold backing was not available then. Some of the Mamod decals - the scalloped edge variety have been aged to reflect the poor resolution of the early printing.


The natural slight mis-register helps with the authentic look of these oval Mamod types.

I have added some noise to the background of these to help give the gold a little more aged/texture


As an experiment I tried some colour casting of the noise background on this Bowman decal...

Final size will be 38-40mm diameter. This design was draw from one of my own, the M140 decal has a slight change in design...

Just the sizing to sort out now along with a extra keyline on the inner roundel of the mark.


Because of the varying quality of decals of the time, Im offering Mamod types with no noise in the background. here are the two types for comparison...
Spokesmann

More stuff today. Nailed the Bowman logo, whay cant a roundel be a fixed size!! Off on a rant  38mm-42 mine seem to be. Adjusgted the design, its here with my M158. This has just be roughly cut out, a scalpel will do a better job, its looking better. Possibly some grime still needs to be added. Added some other Mamod stuff today. I will have a selection of my work with me at Exeter for them thats interested.

Comparison of waterslide clear and metallic paper. the paper imparts a more authentic subdued colour in my view, very similar to some original examples I have. Thats said the colour variance seems to be considerable for these logos.









avenger

Nice work Mike they look good to me.
Spokesmann

Thanks H, always room for improvement though. Wink
Mamod Collector

Its about time you had those on eay Mike  Very Happy
Spokesmann

Im gearing up for that Mike, but yes you are right.
steam123

what a grand job Mike  Very Happy
Spokesmann

steam123 wrote:
what a grand job Mike  Very Happy


Thank you. Smile
Spokesmann

Just to let members know I have completed a number of orders now for some very discerning collectors who seem happy with the results. Just ask and Ill see what I can do.
Mamod Collector

Did you contact the guy about the Meccano ones Mike  Smile
Spokesmann

Mamod Collector wrote:
Did you contact the guy about the Meccano ones Mike  Smile


Yes, he's making up his mind!
       Freesteam Forum Index -> The 3Rs... Restoration, renovation and refurbishment!
Page 1 of 1