Hello.
First, an apology of sorts – it may be that this info is elsewhere on the forum, but even having had a good look around I've been totally unable to make head or tail of the process so sorry if I'm asking someone to repeat it…
The lockdown has resulted in my recent return to modelling after a 2.5 decade hiatus, and I have to say I am loving it. A bit rusty but there you go!
I would be really grateful for some tips on weathering / shading – specifically using washes and powders. I have painted my model in matt Humbrol enamels (I think in hindsight / having done a bit of research, perhaps not the best approach, but we are where we are!) and would like to pick out the panel lines a bit, and maybe add some exhaust / gun smoke residue / mud etc.
I think I understand that the process should go like this:
1. Varnish with acrylic gloss clear (because I painted in enamel?);
2. Apply enamel wash;
3. Apply any powders or other weathering (e.g. chipping, exhast / gunsmoke stains, etc);
4. Varnish with acrylic gloss clear again; and
5. Then apply acrylic matt clear.
Is that right?
Assuming I've got that right: Should I buy model cote for the varnish (in gloss and matt)? I've read some nasty things about what varnish can do to paint / decals. Any tips (including any specific manufacturers) would, again, be enormously appreciated.
Sorry for asking such dumb questions. I'm just a tiny bit (actually, a lot) confused.
(In case anyone's interested, I've picked as my victim for this first build in over 25 years the Revell 1/32 Spitfire Mk.IIa. Like the paints, perhaps not the best choice to start with but again, we are where we are!)
Thanks in advance for all your help.
HB