GLOSS ACRYLIC VARNISH AEROSOL - 400 ml

The ultimate varnish for achieving a mirror finish on your figures, static models, and slot car bodies: the Gloss Acrylic Varnish spray from Acrylicos Vallejo.

Within the range of spray paints from Acrylicos Vallejo, this 400 ml varnish holds a special place for those looking to seal their work with a professional-grade glossy finish. Its water-based acrylic formula —CFC-free— combines excellent optical transparency with flexibility that prevents cracking even on surfaces subjected to movement or vibration, something especially valued in slot car bodies that endure impacts on track.

Main features

• High gloss finish: provides a uniform "mirror" effect that enhances the depth of colour and the underlying paintwork.
• Water-based, CFC-free: a more environmentally friendly formulation without the harsh odour of solvent-based varnishes.
• Non-yellowing: maintains transparency over time, preserving the original tones of the piece.
• High UV resistance: protects pigments from fading due to exposure to light.
• Scratch resistance: once polymerisation is complete, the varnish layer hardens and effectively protects the surface.
• Quick drying: allows for touch-ups or new layers within reasonable working times.
• Large format: 400 ml, designed for larger projects or for the hobbyist who frequently varnishes.

Compatible surfaces and applications

This varnish is suitable for sealing and protecting work done on metal, resin, primed plastics, and primed wood. It is compatible with acrylic paints —such as the Vallejo range itself— and also with oil paints. Its use on unprimed plastic is not recommended without first conducting a test in a less visible area.

In the hobby realm, it perfectly covers three disciplines:

• Slot and competition: varnishing of hand-painted or airbrushed bodies to protect them from scratches on track and wear.
• Static models: final sealing of vehicle, aircraft, or ship models to preserve the work for years.
• Figures and dioramas: fixing the finish on painted miniatures, highlighting the shine of metallic and uniform paints.

Application tips

1. Shake vigorously the container for at least one minute before use.
2. Ensure that the base paint is completely dry before applying the varnish.
3. Hold the aerosol at a distance of approximately 40 cm from the surface.
4. Apply very thin layers instead of one thick layer to avoid build-up or a "milky" effect.
5. Maintain a minimum interval of 30 minutes between each coat.
6. Always work in a well-ventilated area: the aerosol is extremely flammable and label warnings must be followed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use this varnish over Vallejo paints without changing the colours?

Yes. Being transparent and water-based compatible with acrylics, it does not alter the underlying colours. The glossy finish may visually intensify the saturation of the colour, which is common with any gloss varnish, but it does not change the actual hue.

Is it suitable for varnishing slot car bodies before racing?

Yes, and in fact, it is one of its most common uses among hobbyists. Once polymerisation is complete, the varnish layer offers good scratch resistance that protects the paintwork from typical track or rail wear.

How many coats are needed for an optimal result?

In most cases, two or three well-applied thin coats are sufficient. The key is not to build up varnish in one pass: thin and well-dried layers always yield better results than a single thick coat.

Can it be used on unprimed plastic?

The product technical data indicates its use on metal, resin, primed plastic, and primed wood. It is recommended to conduct a prior test on a less visible area before applying it to the entire piece on unprimed plastic.

Is it compatible with varnishes or paints from other brands?

Generally, yes, as long as the base layer is fully cured. However, as a precaution, always conduct a compatibility test on a discreet area before applying it to a finished project.

How long does it take to fully polymerise?

Tactile drying is quick (allows resuming work in minutes), but complete polymerisation —when the varnish reaches its maximum hardness and scratch resistance— can take between 24 and 48 hours depending on temperature and humidity.

Vallejo 28530 Gloss Varnish Spray 400ml — acrylic water-based protective varnish for scale models, slot car bodies, miniatures and dioramas. High gloss, UV resistant, non-yellowing clear coat. Scratch resistant finish compatible with acrylic and oil paints on metal, resin, primed plastic and wood. Ideal for collectors and competition hobbyists seeking a professional mirror-like finish.