How to seal in weathering?

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Techniques
1

Hi,

I used Tamiya’s weathering master to weather an AFV. The weathering will not stay so I used Tamiya TS-13 clear aerosol spray. However, the spray either washed away or blew away all the weathering. IO end up with virtually no weathering at all. Tried airbrushing Future with same result.

So, what do you guys use or do to seal in weathering - especially those done with pigments,powders like Tomiya weathering master?

Thanks

JS

2

I seal my pigments (I use MIG) with Mona Lisa odorless thinner. It also helps if you’re applying the pigments over a semi-flat or flat finish for better grip.

3

You can try airbrushing a flat coat of some kind. As you have already experienced, it is key to start at a good distance ( maybe two feet) and with light pressure - basically you want the mist to fall on the surface. It dries pretty quick and you can gradually work your way closure to a normal distance all in one session. As pointed out by Doogs, powders adhere best on a flat surface.

regards,

Jack

4

Thanks for the tips/suggestions, guys.

Looks like I made these mistakes:

  • pigments applied over surface coated with Future

  • sprayed too close to the model and at too high pressure (15psi I think)

So:

  • flat coat for pigments then seal using flat coat (I dont have access to Mona Lisa thinner - am in Asia)

  • gloss coat for decals and washes and seal using flat coats as well

Do let me know if I am wrong.

Cheers

JS

5

Over subtle applications of pigments, any clear coat will make it tend to disappear. It’s not a case of your airbrush or spray can blowing the pigments away. They’re still there, but blended into the surface (and clear coat) and less visible.

6

Hi Phil,

Do you have any suggestion how I can seal subtle pigment weatherings?

I assume clear coat is not the same as flat coat?

Will flat coat work better?

Thanks!

JS

7

You really don’t need to seal,I fix the pigments with thinner or leave them dusty looking.Just handle your model carefully and I have found that there is no need to seal.

8

Thanks Tojo72. I have a lot to learn.

How do you ‘fix’ the pigment with thinner? Mix thinner and pigment together and apply? Will the Tamiya thinner for acrylic paints work?

Cheers

9

Sure no problem,I apply the pigments with a brush,dusting them on,then add a few drops of thinner,mix a little on the model, and when it dries,it’s fixed.

I dont know if your usig Mig Pigments,but try their site,there are some good articles on pigments and a forum www.migproductions.com

10

Thanks Tojo. I’m using Tamiya Weathering master. Will try.

11

I got the new concept to seal.