I make my own graphics using the simple
Microsoft PC Paint program that comes standard
with every version of WIndows since.....forever.
It has all the tools I need: cut & paste, transparent
copy, sizing, rotating, etc.
I mostly go online, Google images & choose a
topic. Then just use image capture & start editing
the .jpg file on PC Paint.
I spent a good deal of time putting together a
scale by inches to apply to the graphics I'm editing
to get the approx size I need for the model including
the file length & width proportions.
If you have one, you can further tweak the file using
any photoshop type software you have.
I print from a simple $50 HP inkjet printer I've been
using for years.
I use either decal paper or as of late self- adhesive vinyl.
Visiting headquarters one day, the General gave me
some inkjet vinyl product she had used to take
home a give a try. I've been using it almost
exclusively since. 😀
The ink dries quickly & is VERY permanent.
I print a page & almost immediately cut & apply it.
I've even wiped off a paint smudge or two with a
light swipe of acetone with no damage.
The results are much brighter & sharper than I get
with this cheap printer using decal paper.
I sometimes use a heat gun to get it around an edge
or two & it doesn't seem to mind that either.
It's so much easier to apply a large "Wrap" with this
stuff than fooling with a large water slide.
You don't need to clear coat either.
It might not be the material to use on a compound
surface, but I haven't tried that yet. Might work with
a heat gun?????????????
I sometimes have to patiently coax the vinyl
through the printer because of it's thickness,
but that's a minor inconvenience & I'm sure a better quality printer wouldn't be an issue.
This is my template for the latest dirt late model
I've been building.
I include any notes & the inch/scale on the file
along with the properties to set the file to for
printing.
I Lay out the graphics first then, using transparent
copying, I copy the body panels over the graphics
giving me the exact size I need. I won't go into
details, because you would have to be familiar with
PC Paint.
Suffice to say, it is not very difficult.
I add numbers, sponsors & any other additional
flotsum & jetsum now.
This is a finished file.
I print using the best print option on the landscape
setting.
The result is, all the printing will be at the top of the
8 1/2 x 11 page.
I cleanly cut off that portion so I can reuse the
vinyl material a couple more times.
......................The End: Brew
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