Delpi Decal FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam: Application Guide
By Newtype: Gundam Model Kits / Gunpla / Paint / Tools | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: How-to Guides
Apply Delpi Decal waterslides to your FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam for a crisp, professional finish. Follow this step-by-step guide to avoid silvering and lifting.
Quick answer
For a clean, painted-on look on your FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam, use Delpi Decal waterslides with a gloss clear coat underneath, set them with a decal softener, and seal them with a matte or gloss topcoat.
Why surface prep matters more on a Full Mechanics kit
The FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam has large, curved armor pieces and a molded surface that can trap dust and release agent. Waterslide decals adhere best to a smooth, glossy surface, so skipping a gloss coat often leads to silvering (air trapped under the film) and edge lifting, especially on the kit’s rounded shoulders and leg armor.
When to apply decals in your build
Apply decals after you have finished painting and gloss coating, but before you apply a final topcoat. If you plan to weather the kit, do the weathering first, then apply decals, then seal everything under a topcoat. This order prevents the decals from being damaged by weathering products and keeps them looking integrated.
Step-by-step application
- Prepare the surface: Apply a gloss clear coat to the parts you plan to decal and let it cure fully. This creates a smooth base that helps prevent silvering. Common mistake: decaling on bare plastic without gloss coating, which can cause poor adhesion and visible film edges. Check that the surface is dust-free and glossy before starting.
- Cut and soak the decal: Cut out the decal you need, leaving a small border, and soak it in lukewarm water for 10–20 seconds until it slides easily on its backing paper. Common mistake: soaking too long, which can dissolve the adhesive and make the decal curl. Test that the decal moves freely before removing it from the water.
- Position and slide: Place the decal and backing paper on the model, then gently slide the backing away while adjusting the decal with a damp cotton swab or your finger. Common mistake: pressing down too early, which traps air and causes wrinkles. Keep the decal wet until it is exactly where you want it.
- Blot and set: Gently blot excess water with a dry cotton swab, then apply a decal softener if needed to help the decal conform to curves. Common mistake: using too much softener on thin decals, which can make them tear or distort. Let the decal dry completely before touching it again.
- Seal the decals: After all decals are dry, apply a thin coat of your chosen topcoat (matte or gloss) to protect them and blend the edges. Common mistake: spraying too heavily in one pass, which can lift fresh decals or cause runs. Use light, misting coats and build up gradually.
Product facts
- Delpi Decal FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam: Official Delpi Decal waterslide set designed specifically for the FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam. Pre-cut shapes match the kit’s contours, so you spend less time trimming and more time placing decals accurately.
Delpi Decal FM 1/100 Forbidden Gundam
