Warhammer Transfer Sheet Nightmare Scenario

[Phip]

I got a box of High Elf spearmen recently to start off an army I've always wanted to do. However, the transfer sheet that came with it is one of the worst things I've had to deal with in my entire hobby life. The transfers tear and fold at the slightest touch and absolutely refuse to lift off the paper sheet. I have tried using both water and Micro Set. I'm posting this wondering if anyone here has had the same problem with the High Elf transfer sheet and whether or not they have successfully used them. If you have used them successfully, I would very much like to know how.

[Daeothar]

The only instances I've had something like this happening is with very old (40+ years) decals. Those are usually identified by the yellowing of the decal's transparent portions while still on the paper. But those become brittle more than that they tear (they simply disintegrate in the water ).

Also; there are several thicknesses of decals available, and some tear more easily than others.

What you can do in such a situation is to spray the decal sheet with clear varnish. Two thin coats will do. Then you can use the sheet as usual, but make sure that you cut out the decal as close to the printed part as possible, since the varnish will cover the entire sheet and it might otherwise tear because of that.

The rest is business as usual then

[Phip]

The only instances I've had something like this happening is with very old (40+ years) decals. Those are usually identified by the yellowing of the decal's transparent portions while still on the paper. But those become brittle more than that they tear (they simply disintegrate in the water ).

Also; there are several thicknesses of decals available, and some tear more easily than others.

What you can do in such a situation is to spray the decal sheet with clear varnish. Two thin coats will do. Then you can use the sheet as usual, but make sure that you cut out the decal as close to the printed part as possible, since the varnish will cover the entire sheet and it might otherwise tear because of that.

The rest is business as usual then

Thank you, I'll give this a whirl

[snitcythedog]

It does sound like old decals where the humidity has gotten into them.  I do not know if the spray sealer trick will work as I have never been able to salvage an old sheet like that.  I was going to suggest photographing the sheet or symbol and printing off your own onto decal paper.  Should solve the problem.