Alclad II Clear Base question

Hi Don, Phil,

Thanks for the replies. Don, I didn't realize that gloss black acrylic worked - have to try it. Phil, yes, I learned about imperfections the hard way. Painted a 1/72 F86 and was delighted with the polished AL finish - until I handled it to put decals on. Everywhere I had touched it, the finish wore off. Need to use gloves after the black gloss until the Alclad  is applied and dry. I can understand why many like it for various silver finishes; I'm sure I will after a little more practice. My query, though, was about where Alclad Clear Base is used (pic below). I've decided I think it is only a protective coat to be used over the plastic to prevent crazing before any lacquer is applied. It contains mineral spirits so likely an enamel. I tried it today on a couple of small props: alclad clear base, Alclad gloss black then Alclad Airframe Aluminum. Came out nice. Thanks again for the help.

Just to add to Don's comment, with Alclad any imperfections will show up so be really carefull. I was scared to use Alclad for a while and now for anything silver I love it, I've not done large areas yet but do plan to on my next project and its not half as big a problem now, I think its a flat look as it will give the paint more to grip too. Again just be carefull with imperfections, I'vce been told people have been able to see fingerprints through the paint when done!!

Phil

For the polished aluminum I use a gloss black enamel or acrylic (I have used both- either works well).  The secret to the polished aluminum is to dial the airbrush way back and put on a very thin coat.  To much Alclad and it looks like their regular aluminum or white aluminum. If you put it down lightly on a very glossy black the result looks like a squadron commander's aircraft :-)