Base coat color for LBM transfers

[ErikB]

I have been using Dheneb Stone or white underneath LBM transfers.  The transfers seem to not be completely opaque and the color doesn't look quite as vibrant as I would like, even using Vallejo Foundation White.

For dark LBM colors the white basecoat seems to show through a little.  For the lighter colors, they are dark and dull unless on a white surface.  Stone seems okay but not quite right.

I have seen a lot of fantastic LBM shields on this website and I am wondering how people are achieve that beautiful high contrast image.

What do all of you use for a basecoat under your LMB transfers?

Thanks!

[Phil Robinson]

I use plain old Vallejo or Foundry white with a coat of gloss varnish before applying the transfer.

[Mick_in_Switzerland]

I just use GW or Vallejo White. 

I think use a gloss coat over this would be an advantage - for waterslide transfers it is a must, for LBMS Stickers a good idea.

[Major Tom]

I just tried the 15mm transfers for the first time and I was disappointed.  The colours were way too dull and the designs too fussy so when shrunk down from 28mm to 15mm they just look a blur.  At 15mm they need to be simpler and much brighter.

For 28mm I have always used white acrylic and I agree with you that the colours can seem washed out or muted sometimes.  I think it depends on the transfers themselves, some LBMS ranges seem to have brighter colours than others.  

I'm going to try using this gloss enamel for 28mm and see if that makes any difference

http://www.transtools.co.uk/hand-tools/painting-and-decorating/enamel-paint/rust-oleum-craft-and-hobby-enamel-paint-white-gloss-75ml?language=en&currency=GBP&kw=&fl=1000&ci=58361205121&network=pla&gclid=CJGFmtbb9cUCFVHKtAodVngAyA

[ErikB]

Thanks for your ideas, folks.

I wonder if the gloss varnish makes a difference.  I have almost 100 shields to do soon.  I will have the opportunity to compare them with white, stone, and with or without a gloss coat.