Need tips on aging AAF decal on US Authentic

[gruvi]

Hi All,
I got a goat A-2 off ebay last month. It has a left shoulder AAF decal that looks too new, almost too gimicky due to how fresh it looks. In a way I wouldn't mind removing it entirely, but before I do, I'd like to see what it would look like worn.
Has anyone got tips on making these decals look aged without harming the skin near and under it?
Thank you

 

[Phantomfixer]

gruvi,
in my experiance, it depends on the maker of the decal and how it was applied. The garcia decals will, in my experiance, wear very quickly. If the decal was applied correctly, it might last a long long time. How to age it? try working/wrinkling the leather by hand, see what happens..

 

[ButteMT61]

1000 grit sandpaper. Start wet. Very lightly!

 

[Peacoat]

Very fine sandpaper, as Butte says, would work. Or, you might get closer to the edge of the decal with a fine grade of steel wool.

 

[gruvi]

Thanks for all the helpful ideas Guys. Everyone has given me some really helpful tips to approach the job thanks!

 

[gruvi]

Update... I just removed the whole thing as I saw the edges, especially at letters, was already lifting away slightly. I am going to just paint something else in place like an 8th patch instead. I think that design looks cooler anyway

 

[2jakes]

AAf decals

No I don't, but Thanks for asking. Although not original , I use acrylics because I can control better the age process . I would try first on
an old leather & see how it looks. Notice that original WW2 art work was not real perfect , but it did capture the Spirit ! Good luck !