How to Apply Regimental Colours to French Napoleonic Infantry
By Victrix Limited 28mm miniatures | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Step-by-step guide to applying French regimental colours to 28mm Napoleonic infantry. Learn to prep, cut, wet, and seal flag transfers for crisp results.
Quick Answer
To apply French regimental colours to 28mm Napoleonic infantry, use a water-slide transfer method: cut close, soak briefly, slide onto a wet flag surface, position, then seal with matte varnish. This gives a flat, durable finish that looks painted on.
Why Water-Slide Transfers Beat Painting Flags by Hand
Painting regimental colours freehand on 28mm flags is slow and often ends in wobbly lines. Water-slide transfers give you crisp, historically accurate designs in minutes, especially when the flag is flat or gently curved. The key is surface prep and a steady hand during positioning.
Know Your Transfer Type
Most flag transfers for 28mm Napoleonics are water-slide, but some are press-on or self-adhesive. Water-slide transfers need water to release the film, while self-adhesive ones peel and stick. Always check the product description; if it says 'water-slide', follow the steps below. If unsure, test on a spare flag or sprue first.
Step-by-Step Transfer Application
- Prepare the flag surface: Paint the flag with a smooth base colour (white or the lightest area of the design) and let it dry fully. Apply a coat of gloss varnish to create a slick surface—this helps the transfer slide and reduces silvering (the shiny film edge). Gloss varnish is your friend; matte varnish will grab the transfer and make positioning impossible.
- Cut out the transfer: Use a sharp hobby knife or scissors to cut the chosen colour from the sheet, leaving a 1-2 mm border. Cutting too close can damage the design; too much border makes the film edge more visible. A clean, close cut reduces visible film, but don't risk cutting into the printed area.
- Soak in water: Dip the transfer in lukewarm water for 10-20 seconds until the film starts to separate from the backing paper. Do not soak too long—the film becomes too soft and can curl or tear. Test one corner: if the film slides easily, it's ready; if it sticks, give it a few more seconds.
- Slide and position: Slide the film onto the wet flag surface using a damp brush or tweezers. Position it carefully, using the brush to nudge it into place. Work quickly but gently; once the film dries, it won't move. Keep the surface wet with a little water or transfer solution to allow repositioning.
- Remove excess water and air bubbles: Gently roll a cotton bud or soft brush from the centre outward to squeeze out water and air bubbles. Press firmly but avoid tearing the film. If a bubble persists, lift the edge slightly and re-roll. Trapped air or water will dry as a silver bubble—fix it now, not later.
- Seal with varnish: Once fully dry (at least 15-20 minutes), apply a coat of matte varnish to seal the transfer and kill the gloss shine. This protects the flag during handling and makes it look painted. Two thin coats of varnish are better than one thick coat—prevents runs and uneven finish.
Product Fact
- French set of Regimental Colours: The French set of Regimental Colours includes 24 standards for individual French infantry units, designed by Stephen Hales. With 24 colours in one set, you can equip multiple regiments without buying separate sheets, saving time and money.
French set of Regimental Colours
