I only use a paintbrush and I don’t plan on getting an airbrush anytime soon. I’ve been using Tamiya enamel X-22 as a gloss varnish, it applies really well but takes forever to properly cure and smells like the cat farted. I want to use acrylic varnish instead as it dried quicker and doesn’t smell as bad. What kind of acrylic varnishes are best for hand brushing? I’m thinking of going for the Vallejo gloss as they have a reputation for being very friendly for brush painters like me, any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!
I hate to say it, but Alclad Aqua Gloss is what your after. I tried this through my airbrush on several occasions with very poor results. However i tried brushing it on and it works great, go figure. You justneed to apply several light coats and your golden.
If you’re talking about applying clear coat gloss, semi-gloss or flat, why not use a rattle can spray paint?
Gloss brushing can always be a little bit tricky, on thing for sure is the right brush. I like too use small flat brushes to get a minimal brush stroke, part of it really is the gaps and bumps when brushig. A good paint will level out but gloss is not so forgiving. I have not tride aqua gloss, Vallejo should work well, make sure with water it down a tad i do 1 drop of water to 2 drops of paint. I airbrush now but as a painter over many years I have learned to start with the paint thinned and then build it up. Better to add more that be stuck with too much. Also try adding a little water or tamiya thinner to the gloss it may help a lot. Another tip, I know what you are saying about curing time, cheap hair dryer saves you decasdes of waitng. I stole my grlfriends
Thanks for the reply! I’m gonna look for some alclad varnish along with the Vallejo
Tomcat - I don’t brush clear finishes often, but the one I like best is Microscale. Comes in gloss, satin and flat. Works best if you keep rinsing and drying the brush every three or four passes, it tends to ball up in the brush hairs rather quickly. Alcohol or lacquer thinner works best to clean the brush after use.
If you want to try a spray can, there are many brands of clear acrylic lacquer in those cans that work well for overcoats. Lots in both gloss and flat.
Visit your local hardware, building materials, or paint store.
Why would anyone want to hand brush a clear coat on a large kit? Its not even worth it in small scale either. Do yourself a favor, buy a spray can of gloss, flat clearcoat or whatever and make it easier for yourself. You’ll save yourself time by spray painting it instead of hand brushing.