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I'm getting ready to finish up my first models, and I've decided that I do want the added protection of a sprayed on clear coat (Matte). I'm going to post a quick poll here listing what I've found to be some of the more popular options for a final coat and see which one gets the most votes. I am most interested in a final coat that is durable and won't change the overall appearance of the model much. Not worried about cost, the amount I will be using means any of them will last a long enough to not matter to me.

Dullcote is my old standby. Very consistent results and, being a lacquer, a leg up in terms of durability over acrylic products. Note, though, that it will change the overall appearance of the model. Granted, just about any varnish is liable to do so, to some degree, but Dullcote gives a particularly flat finish that some people feels 'destroys' metallics. I actually like the effect, which leaves them with a subtle sheen distinct from non-metalllic paints but not too "blingy."

If you truly want a finish closer to that of the bare paint, which is generally more of a satin, consider using a satin/semi-gloss varnish (or Liquitex Matte, which barely qualifies as matte, at all).

As always, varnishes are much a matter of personal preference, so YMMV. I would argue, though, that matte products, specifically, are worth the time to research and test. Gloss is gloss, by and large, and I've found minimal quirks in the application of various brands' offerings. Mattes tend to be a bit more finicky in their application and represent a wider range of sheens.

all about matt varnish. i use humbrol

I tend to use Vallejo matte varnish (which is REALLY flat) but cut it with a lot of airbrush medium to remove a bit of the flatness.

Do yourself a favor and try some Vallejo Polyurethane satin or matte varnish mixed 2:1 varnish to acrylic thinner through an airbrush. The stuff makes dullcoat look like finger paint quality.

For a lot of my models I don't clear coat them. My Tyranids have glossy bits and satin bits and I don't want to lose that so I don't clear coat them. A lot of models I just prefer the natural finish of the paint.

For stuff I do clear coat (it's necessary for decals and a lot of weathering techniques) I airbrush it. It depends on the weather but typically either Vallejo satin, Vallejo matte or GW gloss if I want something glossy.

I have tried Army Painter's satin spray can as well but I didn't really like it, too hard to get a nice consistent finish from one model to the next.

Iv switched to Satin varnish

Less dull but not too shiny

On models with much wear, Vallejo satin. All other models, nothing.

 Talys wrote:
On models with much wear, Vallejo satin. All other models, nothing.

Hey Talys... is that in an airbrush?

Can we add Golden to the list? That's my vote! Golden Archival Varnish. Its specifically formulated for acrylics and comes in matte, satin and gloss. I've used all three for various things, but the satin is the best for me. You can get it in a spray can or as a brush on. Costs about $20 a can so it isn't cheap.

I've been away from my computer for a few days, but thanks so much for the responses, a lot of good information here. I'm going to have to think this one out a bit more, I do like the idea of the added protection, and I do like a matte finish, but I'm not positive that I want my metallics (Ultramarines) to be completely flatt/matte. Time for some further thought and testing. Thanks again.


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darkcloak wrote:
Can we add Golden to the list? That's my vote! Golden Archival Varnish. Its specifically formulated for acrylics and comes in matte, satin and gloss. I've used all three for various things, but the satin is the best for me. You can get it in a spray can or as a brush on. Costs about $20 a can so it isn't cheap.

Interesting, I've added this to the short list. Looking at the website it seems to be an excellent option.

I guess I'm just a belt and suspenders kinda guy. When finished I hit the model with a good coat of Testers Gloss, let dry then hit it again with matte coat. Gives it a good hard outer shell and between the gloss and matte it leaves a good satin finish.

 Desubot wrote:
Iv switched to Satin varnish

Less dull but not too shiny

Yep same usually. Vallejo 3 matte to 2 gloss is my standard final varnish now. Then brush on gloss where applicable.

This may be my answer, a mix of matte, satin and/or gloss where applicable. Nice.

I use Army painter's, but heard a lot of praise for Testors Dullcote.

AllSeeingSkink wrote:
My Tyranids have glossy bits and satin bits and I don't want to lose that so I don't clear coat them

I wondered about this too - I was considering a heavy gloss coat, masking the carapace sections, then matt coat over the top.

Protection without ruining the effect

One thing about the Army Painter Anti Shine Matt Varnish that interest me is the following statement:

"Although really matt, the sprays original formula retains the metallic shine from Plate Mail etc."

Not sure how true it is, but I think I'll give this one a shot as it supposedly will preserve the look I want from the metallics, although since it is an Acrylic it won't protect as well apparently.

 Demigod wrote:
This may be my answer, a mix of matte, satin and/or gloss where applicable. Nice.

Yeah the good thing is you can get it to the exact shine you like. As someone else mentioned, when done painting do a gloss varnish first for a more durable coat, then do your final varnish with the shine you want.