The only thing I would add to what Shamus said is -
Keep a small bowl of CLEAN water on hand, with a small soft bristle paint brush in it.
You will also need a good pair of fine point tweezers.
Also - very important - keep a fresh supply of x-acto blades & a good straight edge. Change the blade every few cuts. Nothing can mess up decal film like even a slightly dull blade!
After you've cut out your decal, use the tweezers to hold it in the water for 10 or 15 seconds. (large decals may take a little longer)
Place the decalon the model, close to where you want it, & use the brush to gently push the decal off the backing paper, & kind of "float" it into position. Once you've got it where you want it, use a small piece of paper towel to VERY GENTLY blot off the excess water.
Now use the brush to apply Micro-Set adhesive. Be careful, because the decal can still be moved out of position, & you want to be sure everything is right before the Micro-Set dries.
Once the Micro-Set has dried, apply Micro-Sol. This softens the decal, & causes it to conform to any irregularity in the surface of the model. (grooves, rivets, etc...)
Wait for this to dry, & check for bubbles or "silvering" under the decal film. If you see any, simply poke some holes in the affected area with a needle or sharp point of an x-acto blade, apply more Micro-Sol, & allow to dry again.
After everything's dry, apply your flat finish, weather to your liking, & you're done!
Hope this helps. Good luck!
P.S. Practice first on some old "bad order" equipment.
[This message has been edited by Charlie (edited 02-24-2001).]