Reviews : Microscale Micro Sol Setting Solution 1 oz bottle

I've been using Micro Sol Setting Solution (MI-2 in red lettered bottle)for quite a while and paying more for it elsewhere. It's very affordable at HobbyLinc and at their price I can use it without feeling like I'm applying liquid gold to my decals. The Setting Solution will shrink, soften and stretch your decals to conform to most any variety of surface shaping. Used properly you no longer have to worry about one edge riding up on a curved, angled surface or uneven surfaces like aircraft wing rivets or across door and body panels on a car. The directions on the bottles are clear, concise and I have found following them (for once) gives the very best results. Though not a Con., this solution works quickly on decals. Decals come in different thicknesses and with the thinner decals it will soften them to a point that they are easily damaged if you try to move them a lot once applied. The best course is to use the Micro Sol Setting Solution (MI-1 in blue lettered bottle) sparingly until you get your exact placement, then let it dry some before applying the MI-2 in the red lettered bottle.

As advertised it completely softens the Decals, allowing it to drape down onto the surface of the model, conforming perfectly to surface irregularities without distortion. Micro Sol actually makes the decal part of the painted surface, obviously it depends on the quality of the decal, if its bad or below average, don't expect miracles. For the best results, first apply Micro Sol to prepare the surface and enhance the adhesive, Then put the decal, Then, when everything is dry enough that the decal will not move easily, apply Micro Sol with a small flat brush, and then leave it alone. It does the work. Do not touch until the decal has dried, as the decal is very soft at this stage and could be easily damaged, or it could move from the correct position. One application is enough in most cases but, some irregular surfaces require more applications of Micro Sol. I work with 1/72 model kits, and this product became essential for me.

Microscale Industries, Inc. Micro Sol, MI-2 setting solution for decals is a much more powerful decal softener than the Micro Set product. Micro Sol is strong enough to soften the decal to make it conform to sharp angles and rough surfaces such as elevated rivets or recessed panel lines. Proper use of this product will help to reduce decal silvering. Rolling a cotton swab over the decal while applying gentle pressure will help to push out any air bubbles and absorb excess Micro Sol. The user should be careful and use this product sparingly in multiple applications as excessive amounts applied too quickly will flood the surface and melt the decal. Please follow directions printed on the bottle carefully for the best results. This product is recommended for model builders of all skill levels.

The Micro Sol hasn't worked out for me. I do see it altering the decals, but so far it's made and left more wrinkles and bubbles than when I started. I've followed a lot of advice, including letting dry overnight and poking holes or slicing with a scalpel blade with repeated applications of the Micro Sol but my decals just don't lay down. I think your results are very dependent on the manufacturer, age, and condition of your decals. Don't look for this to be a miracle cure.

Along with Micro Set, if you do even a little bit of water slide decal work, you want this on your workbench. Micro Sol is what you use to soften decals and help them conform to irregular surfaces of your model. If a single application of Micro Sol doesn't work, you can apply it several more times for greater decal-softening effect. Micro Sol works great, but there are stronger (hotter) softening solutions out there to consider. But this should work 98% of the time.

Does a fantastic job at getting the decals to stay on and bind with the surface contours. However if you have any additional masking to do, decals are still vulnerable to being peeled up by tape, so make sure you put a layer of clear coat or varnish over them first.

This stuff is the best for making decals look painted on. It’s gentle enough to not make them crinkle too often, but strong enough to let the decal conform to raised and recessed details. An essential.

This is the best decal stuff I have ever used.Gi.ve this a try and you wont be disappointed. It forms with the surface great.I would not build a model without it.

This stuff is pretty good for normal decals on most surfaces. Not as strong as the Tamiya Mark Fit or Solvaset, but you don't always want those.

This is an absolute MUST have for anyone applying waterslide decals to uneven surfaces. It helps the decal to soften and adhere around details.

Very good decal setting solution. works well with all decals. Just be careful with thin decals, it can cause it to become very soft and break.

This is my go to setting solution for decals. This, with Micro Set, I would highly recommend. Great pricing from Hobbylinc as well!

Helps decals set and conform to surface. I brush it on immediately after decal placement to help conform to surface irregularities.

Great for waterslide decals and really allows them to soften and mold to uneven and curved surfaces especially on ABS plastic.

Difficulty: Beginner Pros: Easy to use Cons: None Other: Note that this is step 2, where step 1 is applying Micro Set.

Great item for setting decals need for times when they are going. Into compound curves and over rivets. Love this stuff

this is awesome stuff follow the instructions and it will work great , get some its worth the money

A must have for every modeler. I can't do without it. A must have companion to Micro Set.

I usually use testers this is a better bargain more for the money works just the same love it

One bottle will last you aong time. Helps decals settle in the odd shapes and cracks

Provide results over and over ... best product to Soften Decals