Cheap way to spray paint decals.

[Orion14ed]

With my new builds, I want to do some cool designs with paint on them. Spray paint seems to be the most simple way to do it. I was thinking, I could make paper cut outs of the designs, put it on the rocket, and only paint the parts that I need painted like that. Then cover up that decal, to paint the rest. Any ideas? How do you paint your rockets?

[Rocketbuilder]

I've thought about using a stencil for lettering, but I've never actually done it. What you're proposing sounds like it would work, but it would be difficult to make anything more complicated than a basic, single color design. Actual decals would probably give you better results, but they can be expensive. If you want to make your own decals, I would suggest getting something like this: http://www.hobbylinc.com/htm/tes/tes9201.htm
But, if you want, go ahead and try painting them. The worst that can happen is that you'll have to paint over it, and you're certain to learn something from the experience.

[stantonjtroy]

I can offer up two suggestions in line with your idea. First get some Ink Jet waterslide decal paper and print your own designs. I get my paper here: http://www.micromark.com/decal-paper.html . If you search the archives there have been a number of threads on this very topic. Just be sure to seal the inks with clearcoat before dipping in water.
Second is expanding on your masking idea. There is a product called Friskett Paper. It's a clear masking film with a very light tack (stick stuff) on the back. It's design specifically for making custome paint masks for various shapes. Cuts well with a fresh #11 blade and, as a rule, wont lift underlying paint. I use it often on custome paint jobs. It's available at most any reasonably stocked art supply store or online. Both are very easy to use. Give it a try.

[chrism]

You can airbrush the area on the rocket where you want to put a design or lettering and then use painters tape or frisket to cover the area and then spray the contrasting color on top of that. When the paint is dry to the touch, remove the mask.