I guess I need some advice

It depends on the clear coat or top finish.

It can give a model either a flat or a glossy appearance, clear coats also add a layer of protection for the paint.

QUOTE: clear coats also add a layer of protection for the paint.

And protection for the decals.

As to applying it .. see the sticky topic "The Complete Future" at the top of this page.

it also diffusses light, make the paint look deeper and softens hard edges.

Top coats can be Future or laquers, either flat or gloss. I generally finish off with a laquer finish because it provides the best protection and keeps the decals from yellowing.

John

yeah ii guess i missed the post about the complete future. I read that and it helped out a good bit. I wonder though, if we use it like we do on models, what do you guys think about sprying a fine layer on photos you printed yourself on an ink jet? I wonder if it would be a good sealer, if used right? I may have to try that...... I'll let you guys know !

I have used the Futur on my License plates and the tags are off of a ink printer and has no runs in it. Now for normal builds i use Acrylic Urethane Lacquer 3 coats over the paint and this seals it up tight and give a nice stance to the color. You also have to remember if you spray it on to early before the paint realy drys it will give a different color to the paint then what you are looking for. Also i use what is called Mid or Inter Coat Clear and this is right after i prime my parts and body...Its a self leveling clear coat that will fill in all the pores and scratch marks and makes them level to paint on.. This is realy only if you are using silver you will see what im talking about.
This is the steps i use
1 Primer
2 Inter Coat Clear
3 Base Coat Sealer
4 Color Coat
5 Clear Coat

Inter Coat is a thinner coat and should never be used as the top coat clear for nothing. Also if you are doing graphics or Camo stuff it would be good to use the steps on that i have listed.

Primer
Inter Coat
Base Coat Sealer
Color Coat
Inter Coat
(Now going into graphics)
(this will seal the tape lines off so no runs )
Base Coat
Color Coat
( Pull Tape off)
Clear Coat