I just finished applying the decals to my Heller Subara WRX and I’m extremely pleased with the way it turned out. Paint is Model Master enamel from a can. Now I want to enhance the appearance of the model and also preserve its finish for as long as possible. I can’t afford an airbrush now, but is there an acceptable spray can clearcoat that will meet my needs? The model is not museum quality, but I’m very happy with it and I don’t want to botch it now!
If you want a non shiney look I recomend testors Dull Coat. For a shiney look same brand but gloss coat.
One trick to use with anyting you spray from a can is to heat it up in “Warm” water. This will allow the paint to flow more evenly over the model and reduce the risk of “orange peel”(bumbs through the paint that look similar to the skin of a orange). Do not use a hair dryer or extremly hot water as this could easily cause the can to explode, if you can put your hand in the water then it’s fine.
A clear coat will also remove brush marks (assuming the paint is applied correctly leaving no raised paint lines) leaving a close to air brush finish.
This is a photo of a model i hand painted and applied testors dullcoat to.
I have used Krylon clearcoats with great results. You can get it at any art store. Their matte coat is not a dull as the Testors dullcoat (it’s pretty dull) and, to me, gives a better finish. I agree with Zguy, warm the can first before applying. However, BE careful. Too much of the Krylon at one time will wrinkle enamel paint. Give several thin coats with time to dry.
Andy
I’ve used Testors clear sprays (dull & gloss), they both work. For a few years before I got my airbrush that’s who I added clear coats. Besides the excellent advise regarding warming it up is to start and stop spraying with the nozzole away from the model - making quick passes. Its virtually impossible to control the spray so its very easy to apply too much, especially when it first spurts out. Its a lots easier to control with multiple quick passes in conjuction with keeping your distance from the model. Too close will also have too much paint landing on the model. I usually keep about 1 foot back.
Thanks all, I’ll use a can and upgrade soon to an airbrush.
An AB is going to make a world of difference in painting your models , for the better . [:)]
badun , [#welcome]