I need advice on a source for a custom dry transfer of a company name (text only) for use on N scale trucks and ore cars. If that works, maybe the same in larger size for billboards and structures.
Ray, you can make your own waterslide decals very easily. Just use your computer to make the text, use an inkjet printer with decal paper you can get online or at hobby shop, and then spray with a clear sealant that is made for this purpose.
Ray I just made some decals for several cars going onto my [under construction] layout. Here's a step by step EASY way to do this on your inkjet or laser printer. Using any word processing program, find a font close to what you want for your sign, car side, etc. Type out what you want, then decide what color, then copy & paste, however many you think you will need. Add some extras. Then import any images you want, same deal, copy and paste. You can add stripes in any color too. You could add windows, silhouettes for inside buildings, you get the idea. When you are happy with it, print it out on some regular paper, cut them out and see if they look right where they are going. Go back and adjust whatever needs to be smaller, larger, different color, etc. Plan out to use a half piece of paper. Then print it out on a sheet of decal paper, you can get it a t Hobby Lobby or Amazon. In fact, most well-stocked hobby shops might have it. Use some decal sealant, I've used Testor's Brand for years, give the sheet 2 or 3 good coats and let dry.
Ray, I 2nd what Deacon said, assuming you have a PC with a side printer. His technique is pretty much what I use. I have made many of my own decals. Attached is an image of a set I made for a 3D printed railcar. The entire side, as you look at it, is one decal from flatcar to the very top flat walkway area. I think it turned out well. Just shows what you can do DIY : PS: I do not have an ALPS printer so this was printed on white decal paper and not clear paper.
