Sofia Martinez
Whether to seal plastic miniatures or not is a question that divides modellers. Some people choose not to seal their models, but it is generally recommended as it can protect your paint job from damage and fading. There are many different types of sealers that you can use to finish your miniatures, including brush-on sealers, spray sealers, and airbrush sealers. Spray sealers are best used in temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C) with minimal humidity to avoid a cloudy finish. It is important to ensure your model is clean and free from dust before applying a sealer.
Characteristics and Values of Sealing Plastic Miniatures
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Necessity | Sealing plastic miniatures is not necessary but is recommended to protect the paint job |
| Protection | Sealant acts as a protective layer over the paint, preventing scratches and chips |
| Paint Durability | Sealant prevents paint from wearing off due to handling and fading from light exposure |
| Shine | Sealant can increase the shine on miniatures, enriching the colors |
| Application | Sealant can be applied using a brush or spray |
| Spray Considerations | Spray sealant should be used in a well-ventilated area, with minimal humidity, and at a temperature between 65-85°F (18-29°C) |
| Brands | Recommended brands include Testors Spray Lacquer Sealer, Krylon ColorMaster Acrylic Crystal Clear, Vallejo Gloss Varnish, and Army Painter Matte Spray |
| Off-Label Uses | Dullcote can be used as a "save" feature when painting freehand, allowing for easy correction of errors |
| Storage | Proper storage is important to prevent damage to paint, with egg crate foam being a good option for transit |
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What You'll Learn
Sealing plastic miniatures is optional but recommended
There are many different types of sealers that you can use to finish your miniatures, including water-based and lacquer-based sealers. You can also choose between a matte finish and a gloss finish. A gloss coat is cheaper than multiple layers of a matte/dull coat, but some people prefer the look of a matte finish.
When applying a sealer, it is important to ensure that the environment is clean and free from dust, as any dirt or grime will stick in place after being sealed. You can apply the sealer with a brush or a spray, and it is recommended to do it in temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C) with minimal humidity to avoid a cloudy finish. If you are using a spray sealer, hold the can about 10 inches from the miniature and keep the can moving to avoid pooling.
Some people also use a sealer as a "'save" feature while painting, applying it to a painted surface first and then using a damp brush to lift up the paint to correct errors. This is known as an off-label use of sealer.
Overall, sealing your plastic miniatures is a good idea if you want to protect your work and ensure that the paint does not wear off or fade over time. It is an optional step but can make a big difference in the longevity of your miniatures.
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Sealants protect paintwork from scratches and chips
Sealing plastic miniatures is a choice that you can make. However, it is highly recommended to seal painted miniatures to protect them from scratches and chips. Sealing miniatures is the last step in the process of making miniatures. The first step is priming the models, then painting them, and finally, sealing them. Sealing miniatures can be done using a spray sealer or a brush-on sealer.
Sealants also help to prevent paint from fading due to light exposure. While sealants can increase the shine on miniatures, they can also enrich the colours, making the miniature more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, sealants provide protection against stone chips and scratches, preserving the paint underneath.
In the context of car paintwork, sealants are essential for maintaining the vehicle's pristine condition and resale value. A clear film solution or a synthetic or ceramic paint sealant can be applied to act as an invisible shield, protecting the paint from scratches, chips, and environmental contaminants. Car owners can also use wax as a more affordable option to reduce small scratches and enhance the shine of their vehicles.
Overall, sealants are crucial for protecting paintwork on miniatures and vehicles from scratches and chips, ensuring their longevity and maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
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Sealants prevent paint from fading due to light exposure
Sealing plastic miniatures is not a mandatory step in the painting process, but it is highly recommended to protect your work. Applying a sealant is the last step in the process of painting miniatures, and it acts as a protective layer that bonds to the paint, preventing it from wearing thin and rubbing off during handling.
Sealants can help prevent paint from fading due to light exposure. While sealants cannot entirely stop paint from fading, they can significantly reduce the impact of light exposure. Most paints used for miniatures are dull and do not reflect light, which can affect the intended look of the model. Sealants increase the shine on miniatures, allowing them to reflect more light and enhancing the colours. The added shine from the sealant enriches the colours, making them appear more vibrant and true to their intended shade.
Additionally, sealants create a durable barrier that protects the paint from UV rays, which are the primary cause of paint fading. UV rays break down the molecular structure of the paint, causing a loss of colour intensity and a dull, chalky appearance over time. By applying a sealant, you add a layer of protection that shields the paint from direct UV exposure, thus slowing down the fading process.
It is important to choose the right type of sealant and apply it properly. Spray sealants are popular for miniatures, but they should be used in controlled temperature conditions with minimal humidity to avoid a cloudy finish. Brush-on or airbrush sealants are alternative options if spraying is not feasible.
Overall, sealants play a crucial role in preserving the paint on plastic miniatures by reducing the impact of light exposure and providing a protective barrier against UV rays, ensuring that your carefully crafted models maintain their vibrant colours and pristine condition for a longer period.
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Spray and brush-on sealants are available
Sealing your plastic miniatures is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended to protect your paint job. Sealing miniatures is the last step in the process of making miniatures, and it involves applying a protective layer over the paint to prevent scratches, chips, and fading. Spray and brush-on sealants are available and offer distinct advantages and considerations.
Spray sealants are convenient and provide a smooth and even finish. They are suitable for large surfaces and can easily be applied to any surface, including metal and plastic. When using a spray sealant, ensure that the environment is well-ventilated due to the foul vapors produced by aerosol sealants. Shake the can for 30 to 60 seconds before spraying, and maintain a distance of about 10 inches between the spray can and the miniature. The ideal temperature range for spraying is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 29 degrees Celsius), with minimal to no humidity, to avoid a cloudy finish.
Brush-on sealants are better suited for smaller surfaces and detailed areas that are hard to reach with a spray. They offer more precise control over the application and are ideal for intricate miniatures. When using a brush-on sealant, ensure that the brush is clean and suitable for the sealant type. Take your time and apply thin, even coats to avoid brush strokes or an uneven finish.
Both spray and brush-on sealants provide a protective layer that prevents paint from chipping, scratching, or wearing off due to handling. They also help prevent paint from fading due to light exposure, enhancing the longevity and durability of your miniatures. Additionally, sealants can increase the shine on your miniatures, enriching the colors and adding a glossy appearance.
It is important to note that sealants should only be applied after the paint has completely dried, and the environment, including the miniature, should be clean and free from dust to ensure a smooth finish. Proper preparation and cleaning of the miniature before painting and sealing are crucial steps to ensure the best results.
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Sealants should be applied in a clean, well-ventilated environment with minimal humidity
Sealing plastic miniatures is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended to protect the paint job and prevent scratches. When it comes to applying sealants, it is crucial to ensure that the environment is clean, well-ventilated, and has minimal humidity.
Working in a clean environment is essential to prevent dirt, dust, grease, or other contaminants from interfering with the adhesion of the sealant. A clean surface ensures that the sealant properly bonds to the miniature, creating a strong and durable protective layer. It is recommended to use a solvent or degreaser to thoroughly clean the surface before applying the sealant.
Ventilation is another critical factor when applying sealants. Sealants can release harmful fumes and vapors, so adequate ventilation is necessary to minimize exposure. Working in a confined space? Make sure to use an exhaust fan or wear a respirator to ensure sufficient airflow. Proper ventilation not only protects your health but also helps prevent a cloudy finish on your miniatures.
Additionally, humidity plays a significant role in the sealant application process. High humidity can negatively impact the sealant's performance and durability. It is recommended to use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and keep them within the optimal range. If the humidity is too high, it can affect the sealant's curing process and lead to issues such as a cloudy finish. Aim for minimal humidity to ensure the best results when sealing your plastic miniatures.
By following these guidelines and creating a clean, well-ventilated environment with minimal humidity, you can ensure the successful application of sealants and protect your plastic miniatures. Remember to always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
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Frequently asked questions
Sealing plastic miniatures is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended to protect your paint job.
Sealing plastic miniatures helps to prevent paint from chipping, scratching, or rubbing off due to handling. It also helps to protect against paint fading caused by light exposure.
Ensure the miniature is clean and free from dust before applying the sealer. Use a spray sealer for larger surfaces and a brush-on sealer for smaller, detailed areas. Apply the sealer in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling foul vapors.
Testors Spray Lacquer Sealer and Krylon ColorMaster Acrylic Crystal Clear are two popular options for sealing plastic miniatures. Other options include brush-on sealers, airbrush sealers, and aerosol sealers like Plaid and Army Painter matte spray.
