Can anyone fill me in on the techniques used to detail an Athearn GP50 with some nice looking number boards? I’ve seen some great looking photos, but don’t have a clue on how this is done. As you can tell, this is my first attempt at adding some detail to a model.
Do you just want to add numbers to a blank numberboard? If so, check with Walther’s for a decal set that matches the roadname and use those. You just have to cut each number out (it will usually already have a black backgound) and then get them lined up straight on the numberboard. You do this by having lots of Solvaset and a toothpick to nudge the numbers into place. I say get the whole decal set because not all numberboard numbers are not the same from road to road. The decal set will also have detail markings that aren’t on the Athearn standard paint scheme.
Shell Scale Decals has all you’ll need here: http://shellscale.com/
Work from a photo to confirm the style you need and you’ll be good to go.
Thanks, this looks like what I’m looking for. Just one question. Are the numbers applied to a small piece of plastic (numberboard) or is this just a set of number decals applied to a background decal which is applied over the clear Athearn lens?
You apply the background decal to the clear insert, then apply the numbers over the background. You could paint the clear insert black or white and apply the numbers over that. Use gloss paint for best results.