gloss coat for decals: whole model, or just small areas?

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Techniques
1

In the past, I’ve always airbrushed my whole model with a few gloss coats for decals. However, I’ve lately been wondering if I can just apply the gloss on the areas that are to be decaled to save time and Future (even though it’s still dirt cheap[:p]). Will this work, or do you think it might produce a “patchy” effect? thx

2

I prefer to Future the entire model prior to decaling. That avoids any possibility of a patchy look & provides the base for wash coats if you choose to weather the model.

Regards, Rick

3

I agree with Rick. I like to clear coat the entire model before applying decal and also to protect the paint when applying an oil sludge wash.

Here is a picture of my Willys Jeep in process. Clear coat, future in this case, oil wash applied and some decals applied, look closely at the dash board.