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Hi, all.

I realise this is probably covered in Modelling, First Year, but; I tried to use the hair spray technique for the first time today, and I noticed that while I can scratch off the top layer of paint quite easy, I can actually use my finger nail, too.

Is there something I can do to seal the model to stop unwanted scratches on the top layer of paint? I realise the answer is probably; "Yeah, sealer.", but I'm not sure what to look for.

Thanks,
Tower

Varnish dude, Testors Dullcote is probably the best finish, but perhaps apply a gloss coat first, as it will protect better.

Purity Seal from Citadel is ok too, easy to source, but will fog with little provocation. (Normally if a second coat is applied before the first is totally dry, but not always)

Any DIY store stuff will probably be good enough though, aerosol is better if you can't airbrush it on.

You would want to use varnish. Now it depends on the model if you want to use a matte or gloss varnish. I am not a fan of gloss so I would use testers dullcote. There are a lot of different variants of varnish.

The hair spray technique is used AFTER you varnish.

To give you an example:


I varnished this first with Dullcote, and then did the weathering after varnishing.

Once you do the weathering you then use the hair spray to affix the weathering materials in place. It can rub off but it can also be reapplied and reaffixed.

Yep...you seal the layer first before using hairspray.

Here is an EXCELLENT video about the technique...watch and gain much knowledge!





Automatically Appended Next Post:
You seal with a *matte* sealer for a more "natural" color look. Satin finish gives a slight shine, and Gloss....whoah...those are for gems, lenses, glass...but not for any armor (generally).

I do it in this order:

Prime
Brown/rust/silver sponge base coat
Hairspray with or without salt sprinkles
Model base coat and highlight
Scrub with a stiff brush to expose the rust base coat under both the main base coat and hairspray
Weathering pigments
Seal with varnish
Oil wash and streaking

Ditch the hair spray all together and use this;

http://www.ak-interactive-usa.com/product-ak088.html

I have found it superior to hairspray and it does not cause the lower level of paint to come off as well.

Ashton

Thanks, guys. I have much to learn. Looking forward to starting my vehicles soon. They'll probably turn out like nothing I want, but it's all about practice.