Beginner Modelling

[rsmcronin]

Hello,

I am new to modelling and currently constructed and painted my second ever model, Supermarine Spitfire, I am yet to add decals as I am unsure which solution is best to purchase for better application?

I would also like to varnish the aircraft when complete and would like some feedback on which type of varnish will produce a better end product?

 

Thanks! 

[Harold D.]

Hi,

For placing on decals, the use of a gloss (varnish) coat underneath will ease application. Once dry I apply the decals using a decal softner. I use the Microscale product range (MicroSol and MicroSet) which achieves the effects that I desire. 

In terms of top-coat varnish, I prefer a single thinned layer of Satin varnish. It is not completely historically accurate but I find that with some camoflauge schemes that Matt varnish coats do not quite look right. All varnishs that I have tested are from the Humbrol Enamel range.

Hope that helps.

[Peter s]

What did you paint it with? Don't use enamel varnish on acrylic paint! You can have a real disaster on your hands. Acrylic varnishes if water based brush on are generally safe with enamels but some spray varnish such as Humbrol acrylic is solvent heavy and can damage paint work. I generally use Vallejo acrylic either matt or satin. As Harold D says Satin may not be that accurate (although Satin paints were used in WW2... a satin black proved a better camo for Blackwidow night fighters than matt, Canadian Lancasters were satin black underneath & a satin finish was good for an extra 20mph on a mosquito) but it can look better. Generally I do my WW2 planes hard matt and my jets Satin.

BTW especially with matt varnish it can make clear parts go cloudy. Thats unfixable so mask your canopy before you varnish.

I use microsol and set too

[rsmcronin]

Thanks for the advice  😎 

I will be using humbrol clear gloss before decal application and decal fix for the decals. Going to opt for satin varnish for final coat and see what the turn out is.