Reply To: Airbrushing Varnishes

[seldon9 12954xp 2]

I use Vallejo gloss varnish through my airbrush. I thin it with Vallejo’s thinner first. It’s hard to give ratios ‘cos I just judge by eye when I think it’s thinned enough. Maybe around 50/50. Couple of coats does the job. I’ve not tried any other varnishes through my airbrush so I can’t compare.

I had quite a few occasions where my airbrush would clog quickly. I found mixing the varnish and thinner outside the airbrush helped. Not sure what was getting in when I mixed in the cup. I think mixing outside the airbrush cup is generally a good habit to get into but particularly with gloss varnish.

I rinse my brush through with warm, soapy water each time I empty the cup and when I’ve finished.

I’ve not tried matt varnish through the airbrush. I’m not clear on the preparation needed to avoid frosting.

I prefer to airbrush gloss ‘cos I thought I was losing details when I brushed on gloss. I’d find small gaps in my drybrushing or edge highlighting. Airbrushing gloss is a gentler way to apply protection in my opinion.