Abstract: A method and apparatus for preconditioning a decalcomania transfer for application to a receiving substrate in which the decalcomania is passed through a solution to precondition it for transfer. The decalcomania is fed through a pair of opposed web-like members, passed through a solution bath and has excess solution removed from the decalcomania prior to application to the receiving surface. By controlling the speed of the web-like members, the submersion time of the decalcomania in the solution is controlled. The apparatus is a container which houses the web-like feeder belts and the solution bath. The bath is partially enclosed to minimize evaporation of the solution. A pair of rollers at the outlet of the apparatus control the amount of solution remaining in the decalcomania such that the decalcomania exiting the apparatus will have sufficient solution to allow easy transfer to the receiving surface yet not have too much solution as to result in excess dripping of solution on the receiving item.