Waterslide Decal Application Help

[wastedyouth]

I applied a waterslide decal and after it fully dried, most of the middle of it appears clear through to the lacquer, but around the ends it is slightly more opaque in certain lighting. It does seem well adhered. I don't know if I didn't press it down enough or if this is the adhesive? I was wondering if there is a way to carefully rewet around the edge and make it look better. I have read about Micro-Sol and Micro-Set, but I am not sure if this would work and if it is compatible with nitro lacquer on the headstock?

[Kyon]

Microsol, maybe microset is just diluted vinegar. I wouldn't leave it on for say like 20 minutes but a little could help. Usuaully though if the decal is looking inconsistent on the headstock it's usually a sign that the finish wasn't level or there was contamination on the surface. Do you have a photo example?

[wastedyouth]

You can see it is at both ends and just above the "d"

[Kyon]

It could also be old adhesive that went bad with age or possibly just exposed to something. How long ago did you apply the decal? Trying a solution of even a warm cloth over the decal for a minute just to soften could possibly help but too long and you risk also ruining the finish with water damage as it could seep into the tuner holes

[lastlol]

You can use Microsol with a brush. Try to put Microsol over the decal and under it where it seems to come unstuck. It works great to make decals adhere to irregular surfaces. It should be ok with the varnish if you wipe the excess on the decal's edge. Just be careful with the decal before it dries, Microsol will make it very soft