I know how to apply a decal to a part model. The problem I have is, I have a diamond pattern for steel but when I place it on the part I can not scale it so it looks the right size for the plate I am putting it on. I can have it extend to the edges of the part model put the pattern is to large and it looks phoney. Any suggestions?
Instead of applying it as a decal, try applying it as a custom appearance. It will then tile the image and you can control the size much better.
Tech Tip: Creating Custom Appearance Files For SolidWorks - YouTube
With a work around -
Not sure if this will be what you want to do or not, but this is what I would do
1. Create a dummy part maybe .001" thick x 12 x 12, and apply the decal to a face
2. Adjust the size according to how it should look in reality, maybe add a sketch of the diamond and have it showing when you adjust the decal
3. Insert the "Part" in an assembly file
4. Add the dummy part and pattern on a face of the "Part"
5. If it looks right, zoom in so your model fills up the viewing are of your screen
6. Save the file as a Jpeg and change the options to at least 1,400 dpi
7. After the file is saved open Windows Explorer, go to the picture folder, also open the part file and turn it to the face you need to apply the decal
8. Then drag and drop the jpeg right on the face you want to show the diamond pattern
9. You may need to adjust the mapping of the picture to turn it and to zoom it right
This may seem like a lot of steps getting what you want, more than likely you might be able to eliminate some steps, however this will get you a really good jpeg "If" your pattern doesn't show a seam.
You won't need to apply a decal, just dragging and dropping a picture from the folder works the same way, if not better..
Instead of applying it as a decal, try applying it as a custom appearance. It will then tile the image and you can control the size much better.
Tech Tip: Creating Custom Appearance Files For SolidWorks - YouTube