Testing the Clear Coat Technique for Perfect Masking Lines!

In this scale modeling experiment, we delve into the common belief that applying a clear coat over masking tape results in a cleaner masking line. Join us as we conduct a practical test using both airbrush and rattle can techniques, exploring the impact of clear coats on the final outcome. The results might just surprise you! Watch to uncover whether this extra step is truly a game-changer or if there are situations where it can be skipped, saving you time and effort in your scale modeling projects.

[@paulbrooker5203]

Never heard of this before,

[@fluxxNZ]

As others have said, clear seems like extra work and layers, i was told many years ago, and have used may times with sucess to mask, then use the base coat to 'seal in the edge' before using the next layer and its always worked well.

[@zombiecreations1447]

Very good video. Now for my question - If you are using the "Clears" to seal the tape to stop or reduce bleed of the darker color to the lighter color couldn't you use the base color to seal and stop the bleeding?

[@forrestegan]

I’m new to this and I had heard of using the base color to do this, not a clear coat…great point and it would be helpful to test the difference between using base vs clear after masking.

[@goforitpainting]

Cool

[@johncahill3644]

I don’t understand the initial question...there’s no reason to think you get no bleeding with the clear coat, you undoubtedly do...but it’s hidden/melts into the final clear coat that you apply over everything including your masked coat. And it does work. PS I like Alclad clear (not aqua) for this cause it sprays a nice thin, even wet layer.

[@ErgonomicChair]

I never considered it added a thickened layer haha.

[@jeffholt9437]

Science.....

[@Hey_MikeZeroEcho22P]

Nice!!🤔 I love getting 'Myths Busted/Resolved'!!! Question for a new myth..... do you need to clear coat an area that you apply decals on?? I deal with aircraft carriers and some of the decals are like the ones on the flight deck where helicopters could land.... it is a sparce decal but a Lot of film. 🤨 On a separate question: Do I gloss-/flat-coat before using a panel liner??🤨 Thanks for the current post.

[@middlingmodeler]

The general rule about clear coating before applying decals is because of the decal setting solution. Most decal setting solutions can damage the paint as they contain mild solvents. Gloss coats are usually used as it makes it easier to slide the decals around. Same rule for panel liners, the gloss coat generally aids the capillary action of the panel liners to make it into the crevices. You can also reduce the outline of the decals by cutting away the excess film. Making good use of decal softening products can also help. Finishing up with flat varnish can help make the decals look painted on as well.

[@Hey_MikeZeroEcho22P]

@@middlingmodeler Got It... So 'GlossCoat' first before applying decals and/or panel liner, then Flats if needed.👍👍 Do You recommend any brand... I Mostly use acrylic paints 'Vallejo Air', 'Tamiya', sometimes I use 'Mr. Color' acrylic. Would you use a Different brand if using a lacquer paint, I have 'Alclad 2'.🤨🤔 Thanks for the reply!!

[@middlingmodeler]

I don't have much experience using lacquer, so I don't have a good answer there. Mostly I use acrylics. I tend to use either X-22 or Mr. Super Clear for gloss coating. For flat coats, my favorite is AK Ultra Matte varnish.

[@Hey_MikeZeroEcho22P]

@@middlingmodeler W O W !!! Quick Response!! Cool Beans... I use that 'Mr. Super Clear', just started using it, it seems to work out Quite nicely for me as well!! 'AK Ultra Matte'.... I'll look into it. I Might Just 'Subscribe' to your Channel for your help and tips!! Thanks, again for Quickest Reply!!

[@middlingmodeler]

@@Hey_MikeZeroEcho22P You are welcome! And thanks for the sub!

[@tedsmith3092]

cool video +1 Sub

[@cellardwellerproductions5125]

Interesting experiment. One question if I may? Your clear coats and some of your sprays were, shall we say acrylic lacquers. The other Tamiya paint from the small jars were they thinned with lacquers or alcohol? Do you think that made any difference? I'm already sold, don't get me wrong. I am being the devil's advocate here. Check, check and recheck everyone else's results.

[@middlingmodeler]

The Tamiya paints from the jar were thinned with X20A.

[@cellardwellerproductions5125]

And I most likely missed that when you said it. My bad for the redundancy

[@joemoore4027]

I've been building for 65+ years and this question has come and gone numerous times over the years. Masking was always an issue talked about and one thing was clear, work cleanly. poor surface prep, fuzzy edged old masking tape, using excessive amounts of paint from a rattle can, poor airbrush skills and paint mixing will be your downfall every time. Take your time and learn masking basic's and you won't need to pile on more paint. Yes I have tried this method and found it's just another layer of paint covering your surface details. Like all other model skills, practice, practice,....

[@paulsmodels]

This does not work . There is no end to the tips and tricks in making plastic scale models. And most of them do not really work.