Do you apply a varnish coat?

QUOTE: Originally posted by james111 I then spray-varnished the model (about 1 part tamiya flat base to 5 parts future), and now it's glossy, you can barely see the pastels, and the highlights are really dulled-down.

As far as the gloss, you might need more flat base in the mix. I find that a ratio of 1 part flat base to 4 parts Future gives a nice matte finish. I've gone as high as 1 part flat base to 3 parts Future, but with that much flat base, there would occaisionally be white frosting effects in corners or other areas where the mixture would collect a bit heavily.

For the pastels kind of disappearing, I find that I have to usually overdo the effect prior to clear coating, with the knowledge that the clear coat will tone down the end result. It takes a bit of experience to see how far to go with it.

QUOTE: Originally posted by james111 So, do you all just not apply a varnish coat, on the basis that the model shouldn't need the protection anyway? if you don't, does the pastel just blow off of the model?

This has always been a much debated subject. I fall into the camp that recommends a matte overcoat. Even given that the only handling your model will probably receive is to put it into the display case, and occasionally move to make room for other models or simply rearrange for variety's sake, there is still ample opportunity to smudge or worse put a fingerprint in the dust. Pastel dust won't exactly blow off the model, but I find that it is delicate enough to be easily disturbed, but permanent enough to be difficult to correct when messed up.

ANdy

I do all the painting of the model, then lacquer it, THEN I brush on the pastel chalk on the flat lacquer. I do pastels last.

Dave

actually, you probably went a little heavy with the future vs. dull coat. I wouldnt repastel it, just use pure dull coat. with my aircraft I go pure future over the weathering (pastels and washes and such) then after 24 to 48 hours go over with just dull coat... the dull coat wont hurt decals and weathering because they are sealed underneath the future.