When painting miniatures is one of the most critical steps in applying a coat of varnish, this article will discuss the different types of varnishes available and how to choose the right one for your miniatures. It will also cover the application process and tips for getting a smooth, even finish.
Varnish for miniatures can be applied with a brush or airbrush, and in some cases, spray cans. Varnish provides your miniatures with a layer of protection from the elements and increases the durability of the paint job. It also gives your painted models a glossy sheen that can make them pop on the gaming table.
We will now cover everything you need to know about choosing the right varnish for your miniatures and the different application processes for your miniatures.
What is varnish, and why do you need it?
Varnish is a clear, protective finish applied to miniatures to protect them from scratches, UV light, and other environmental damage. It also gives the model a nice sheen that brings out the colors of the paint job. Without varnish, your miniatures will be more susceptible to damage and will not have the same vibrant appearance.
Types of varnish
Solvent, Water Based
There are two main types of varnish available for miniatures: water-based and solvent-based. Water-based varnish is easier to apply and clean up, but it can take longer to dry. Solvent-based varnish dries faster, but it is more difficult to apply and can be toxic if not used correctly.
How to choose the proper varnish
The type of varnish you choose will depend on the paint you used on your miniature and your personal preferences. If you used water-based paint, you would need to use a water-based varnish. If you use solvent-based paint, you can use either type of varnish.
Solvent-based vs. Water-based
There are pros and cons to each type of varnish. Solvent-based varnishes dry faster, but they can be more challenging to apply and toxic if not used correctly. Water-based varnishes are easier to apply and clean up, but they can take longer to dry. Ultimately, deciding which type to use is a matter of personal preference.
Gloss Matte & Satin Finishes
There are also two main types of finishes available: gloss and matte. Gloss varnish will give your miniatures a shiny appearance, while matte varnish will give them a more muted look. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is essential. Satin finishes are a middle ground between gloss and matte and can be a good option if you can’t decide which one to use.
How to choose the correct finish
The type of finish you choose will depend on the look you’re going for. If you want your miniatures to have a shiny appearance, then gloss varnish is the way to go. Satin finishes are an excellent middle ground between gloss and matte and can be a good option if you can’t decide which one to use. Matte varnish will give your miniatures a more muted look, which can be beneficial if you want to avoid glare.
Gloss vs. Matte
There are pros and cons to each type of finish. Gloss varnish will give your miniatures a shiny appearance, but it can be more challenging to apply evenly. Matte varnish has a more muted look, but it can be more forgiving if you make mistakes during the application process.
How to reduce the shine of a gloss finish?
After applying a gloss finish, you might not be happy with the results. In this case, many people recommend using a matte varnish over top of the gloss varnish. This will reduce the overly shiny effect provided by a gloss varnish. Check your results, and if you want to reduce the shine of the miniature, this is the way to go.
Application Methods
Spray Varnish
One of the easiest ways to apply varnish is with a spray can. This method is excellent for large areas, but getting an even coat cannot be easy. If you choose this method, work in a well-ventilated area and carefully follow the directions on the can.
Advantages of Spray Varnish
- Great for large areas
- Fast and easy to use
Disadvantages of Spray Varnish
- Can be challenging to get an even coat
- Not recommended for use with water-based paints
- Propellant smell on figurines that can last a long time.
Brush-on Varnish
Another popular method is to apply varnish with a brush. This method is excellent for small areas and gives you more control over the application process. However, it can be time-consuming, and you need to be careful not to get any brush strokes in the finish.
Advantages of Brush Varnish
- Great for small areas
- More control over the application process
Disadvantages of Brush Varnish
- Can be time-consuming
- Need to be careful not to get any brush strokes in the finish
Airbrush Varnish
Applying varnish with an airbrush is a great way to get an even coat. This method is also fast and easy to use. However, finding an airbrush designed explicitly for varnish can be challenging, and you need to be careful not to get any runs in the finish.
Advantages of Airbrush Varnish
- Great for large areas
- Fast and easy to use
Disadvantages of Airbrush Varnish
- Can be challenging to find an airbrush designed explicitly for varnish – check the manufacturer’s guidance for suitability.
- Need to be careful not to get any runs in the finish
Dipping Varnish
Dipping your miniatures in varnish is a great way to get an even coat. This method is also fast and easy to use. However, it would help if you were careful not to get any runs in the finish, and it can be not easy to find a dipping solution that is designed explicitly for varnish.
Advantages of Dipping Varnish
- Great for large areas
- Fast and easy to use
Disadvantages of Dipping Varnish
- Need to be careful not to get any runs in the finish
- Limited control over the application of varnish.
The spray varnish application process
- You will need a clean, dry, dust-free work area to apply varnish to your miniatures.
- Make sure the model is completely dry before beginning. Waiting at least 24 hours after applying any wet paint.
- The can should be kept 20 – 30 cm from the miniatures.
- Shake the can well and apply a thin, even coat to the miniature in short blasts.
- Shake the can in between blasts.
- Repeat the process until each model has a thin layer of varnish coating.
- Allow the varnish to dry completely before handling or storing the miniature. This can take between 24 – 48 hours.
The brush-on varnish application process
- First, you’ll need to decide which type of varnish you want to use—water-based, oil-based, and solvent-based.
- Once you’ve decided on a type of varnish, you’ll need to choose the right finish. Gloss, matte, or satin.
- Apply the varnish with a soft synthetic brush.
- Dip the brush into the varnish, then apply it to the miniature in a thin, even layer.
- Cover the areas you want to protect with varnish, including any nooks and crannies.
- Once you’ve applied the varnish, set the miniature aside to dry.
- Depending on the type of varnish you’re using, it may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for the varnish to fully cure.
- Once dry, your miniature will be protected from dirt, dust, and fingerprints.
The airbrush varnish application process
- If you’re using an airbrush to apply varnish, you’ll need to thin the varnish first unless the varnish is suitable for airbrush application.
- Add a few drops of thinner to the varnish and stir until it’s combined.
- Pour the thinned varnish into your airbrush and start spraying.
- Be sure to hold the airbrush about 20 – 30 cm away from the miniature as you spray.
- Apply the varnish in light, even coats, until you’ve got full coverage. Short bursts are best to ensure a thin layer.
- Once spraying, set the miniature aside to dry. As with the brush-on method, it may take a few hours to a few days for the varnish to fully dry.
The dipping varnish application process
Dipping is the quickest and easiest way to apply varnish, but it’s also the most likely to result in a messy finish.
- To start, you’ll need to thin the varnish if it’s not already suitable for dipping.
- Add a few drops of thinner to the varnish and stir until it’s combined.
- Pour the thinned varnish into a deep container to submerge the miniature.
- Place the miniature in the varnish and allow it to soak for a few minutes.
- Remove the miniature from the varnish and let any excess drip off.
- Set the miniature aside to dry for 24 – 48 hours.
Tips for getting a smooth, even finish.
When applying varnish, it is important to use thin, even coats. If the varnish is too thick, it will take longer to dry and could run or pool on the surface of the miniature. It is also essential to allow each coat of varnish to dry completely before applying additional coats. This will help prevent streaks or brush marks from forming. It is helpful to ensure that your miniatures dry in for a smooth, even finish.
How to remove varnish from miniatures?
If you need to remove varnish from miniatures for any reason, the best way to do so is with a soft cloth dampened with Mineral Spirits. Gently rub the surface of the model until the varnish has been removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint over varnish on a miniature?
Once the varnish has dried completely, you can paint over it with your chosen paint. Some people do this to ensure that each stage of the process has a level of protection from the elements.
Do I need to varnish my miniatures?
It is not necessary to varnish your miniatures. However, many people choose to do so as it provides a protective layer and can give the model a shiny, polished finish.
Do I need to remove the varnish before painting?
No, you do not need to remove the varnish before painting.
What happens if you don’t varnish a miniature?
Depending on the type of varnish you use, a protective coat will be on your miniatures. By not adding the varnish, you miss out on a layer of protection. Using gloss or satin finishes, you will also miss out on a sheen – but this is down to personal taste.
How many coats of varnish should I apply to my miniature?
Generally, it is best to apply 2-3 coats of varnish to your miniature. This will provide adequate protection while allowing the paint job to show through.
What is the best way to store miniatures after they have been varnished?
The best way to store miniatures is in a cool, dry place. Varnished models can also be stored in an airtight container to prevent dust or other particles from settling on the surface.
How long should you wait before varnishing your miniatures?
It is best to wait 24 hours before varnishing your miniatures. This will allow the paint to cure and prevent any issues with the varnish adhering to the model’s surface.
How long for varnish to dry on miniatures?
It generally takes 24-48 hours for varnish to dry on miniatures. However, it is essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. Some brands of varnish may take longer to dry than others.
What type of brush should I use to apply varnish?
The best type of brush to use when applying varnish is a synthetic brush. This will help to avoid any issues with the bristles shedding during the application process.
What is the difference between gloss and matte varnish?
The main difference between glossy and matte varnish is the level of shine. Glossy varnish will provide a high-shine finish, while matte varnish will have a more subdued look.
Final Thoughts
Varnishing your miniatures is an essential step in protecting them from damage and giving them a beautiful, glossy finish. There are two main types of varnish available, water-based and solvent-based. Water-based varnish is easier to apply and clean up, but it can take longer to dry. Solvent-based varnish dries faster, but it is more difficult to apply and can be toxic if not used correctly. When applying varnish, it is important to use thin, even coats. If the varnish is too thick, it will take longer to dry and could run or pool on the surface of the miniature. It is also essential to allow each coat of varnish to dry completely before applying additional coats.
