: One sheet of clear (for light surfaces) and one sheet of white (for dark surfaces or white lettering).
The product naming created a great deal of confusion. The kit most people bought was the , which ironically only included the limited "Basic" software edition. Users discovered that the more capable software version was sold separately on the decalgear.com website and was called "Sure Thing Decal Maker-Standard Edition." One frustrated modeler perfectly summarized the situation: "Go figure they had it backwards".
Alternative Note: If the legacy edition crashes due to modern graphics engines, builders can bypass it entirely by using alternative image suites like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or SureThing Office Labeler configured to custom half-sheet dimensions (5.5" x 8.5"). Design Best Practices in Decal Maker
: You can resize images within the program to match specific model scales, such as 1/35 or 1/48, though some trial-and-error printing on regular paper is recommended to verify the exact size. File Formats : Designs are saved in a proprietary
Testors includes a simple, stripped-down design software (compatible with Windows 10/11 and MacOS). It features: testors sure thing decal maker 11 verified
: It includes sheets of both clear and white decal paper. Clear paper is used for dark colors or black on light-colored models, while white paper is necessary for any decal containing white or light colors, as most home printers cannot print white ink.
When Testors introduced its custom decal kit, it disrupted the scale modeling world. Before its release, custom markings required expensive, commercial print runs or access to rare ALPS micro-dry printers. The retail kit simplified this by packing consumer-accessible software with physical production components. Inside the Legacy Retail Kit
, powered by legacy SureThing software, remains a cornerstone technique for hobbyists looking to print high-quality, custom waterslide decals at home. While the core design utility originally bundled with the kit stems from classic graphics architecture, the process of sealing printed inks with Testors Decal Bonder
Fully transparent once wet; blends completely with the model color. Solid opaque white layer under the entire printed design. : One sheet of clear (for light surfaces)
It comes pre-loaded with classic hobby art, such as shark teeth for P-40 Warhawks and military "stars and bars".
Tips for best results
After the print is completely dry, shake the Decal Bonder can vigorously for 30 seconds to a minute. In a well-ventilated area, apply two light, even coats of the bonder over the entire printed sheet, letting the first coat dry for about 15-20 minutes before applying the second. Allow the final, sealed sheet to dry for at least 2 hours , though waiting 24 hours ensures the bonder is fully cured.
If your machine lacks an optical drive to read the original CD-ROM, or if the classic SureThing installation throws compatibility errors, the physical properties of the Testors kit Users discovered that the more capable software version
The software utilizes a "Freeform Half Sheet" workflow optimized for the exact dimensions of Testors decal paper. To ensure high-quality prints without pixelation, follow these workflow rules: Testors 9198 Custom Decal System Decal First Look
The legacy software acts like a streamlined layout tool, specifically pre-calibrated to match the odd dimensions (often
The (Kit #9198), powered by the SureThing Decal Maker software, stands out as a highly reliable DIY method for generating customized waterslide graphics on home printers. Hobbyists frequently reference the phrase "testors sure thing decal maker 11 verified" when searching for stable software configurations, half-sheet layout settings, and reliable printing workflows. This guide covers everything from initial layout configuration to printing, sealing, and applying your custom decals. Understanding the Kit Components