Applying Shield Decals to Medieval Miniatures
By Wargames Atlantic | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to apply pre-cut shield decals to your medieval miniatures, including tips for the Barons' War range. Avoid common mistakes and get a clean, battle-ready finish.
Quick answer
Applying shield decals to medieval miniatures is straightforward with pre-cut designs. Soak, slide, and position using water, then seal for durability.
Why pre-cut decals save time
Pre-cut shield decals eliminate the need for careful trimming around complex heraldic shapes. The Barons' War Shield Decals sets, for example, include 36 shields per box with designs already cut to shape. This means you spend less time cutting and more time painting or gaming.
The decals are designed for plastic shields common in 28mm medieval ranges. They work well on flat or slightly curved surfaces, but you may need a decal softening solution for heavily curved shields.
Choosing the right set for your army
The Barons' War range offers three distinct sets. Set 01 features 24 unique designs plus 12 battle-damaged versions, based on prominent figures like William Marshall and Robert FitzWalter. Set 02 (Knights 02) also has 24 unique designs and 12 battle-damaged versions, covering Hubert de Burgh and others. Set 03 (Serjeants 01) provides 36 unique designs inspired by early 13th-century geometric patterns, reflecting the period when serjeants chose their own shield colors.
If you want historical heraldry for named knights, pick Set 01 or 02. For variety among rank-and-file troops, Set 03 gives you more unique options without repeats.
Step-by-step guide
- Prepare the shield surface: Clean the plastic shield with warm soapy water to remove mold release agents. Rinse and let dry completely. A matte varnish primer helps the decal adhere. Skipping cleaning can cause decals to peel off later.
- Cut out the decal: Use sharp scissors or a hobby knife to cut closely around the pre-cut design. Leave a thin border of clear film if the design is small. Cutting too close to the artwork can damage the edges.
- Soak the decal in water: Dip the decal in room-temperature water for 10–20 seconds until it releases from the backing paper. Slide it onto a paper towel to remove excess water. Over-soaking makes the decal too fragile and prone to curling.
- Position the decal on the shield: Slide the decal off the backing paper onto the shield using a damp brush. Adjust its position gently with a toothpick or tweezers while it is still wet. Do not let the decal dry before positioning; it becomes impossible to move without damage.
- Remove air bubbles and excess water: Roll a cotton swab or soft brush from the center outward to push out air and water. Blot any pooling water with a tissue. Trapped air bubbles will show under paint or varnish; work slowly.
- Seal the decal: After the decal dries completely (at least 24 hours), apply a thin coat of matte or gloss varnish. This protects the decal during handling and gaming. Unsealed decals can lift when you handle the miniature or apply washes.
Product facts
- Barons' War Shield Decals (02): Knights 02: Includes 36 shield decals with 24 unique designs and 12 battle-damaged versions, based on heraldry of Hubert de Burgh, William Longespée, and others. Battle-damaged decals add visual storytelling to your knights without extra painting effort.
Barons' War Shield Decals (02): Knights 02 - Barons' War Shield Decals (03): Serjeants 01: 36 unique shield decals inspired by early 13th-century geometric shapes and colors, reflecting the period's lack of uniform heraldry. Each serjeant can have a completely different shield, making your warband look historically plausible and visually interesting.
Barons' War Shield Decals (03): Serjeants 01 - Barons' War Shield Decals (01): 24 unique designs plus 12 battle-damaged versions, based on heraldry of William Marshall, Robert FitzWalter, and others. A single box covers a core command group with named historical figures, perfect for scenario-based games.
