Micro Coat Gloss

Micro Coat Gloss: the glossy acrylic varnish that elevates your decals and protects your work

When it comes to finishes for models, figures, or dioramas, varnish is not just a cosmetic step: it is the difference between a mediocre job and one that is truly convincing. Micro Coat Gloss (ref. CH64004) is much more than an aesthetic varnish. It is part of the MICRO line, a family of finishes based on a modern formulation of water-soluble acrylic resins that has been a reference among the most demanding hobbyists for decades.

What makes Micro Coat Gloss special?

The foundation of the entire MICRO range is a clear water-based acrylic resin, both durable and flexible. This combination —uncommon in general consumer products— allows the varnish to adhere firmly to both paint and directly to plastic, without cracking or yellowing over time. According to the manufacturer, it can maintain its properties for at least 20 years under ordinary conditions; in collectible pieces kept indoors, its lifespan is virtually indefinite.

The glossy finish provided by Micro Coat Gloss is not only visually clean: it creates a uniform and smooth surface that is essential before applying decals. By eliminating the microporosities of the paint, it prevents the dreaded "silvering" effect (the white halo that appears around decals when the adhesive gets trapped in small air bubbles). The result is a decal that looks as if it has been painted directly onto the model.

Main applications

• Decal base: its primary function and the reason why so many modelers have it on their workbench. A layer of Gloss before the decal, and another layer of protection on top, guarantee the best possible result.
• General protective layer: protects the underlying paint —from brands like Vallejo, Tamiya, or Ammo— from continuous handling, dust, and environmental humidity.
• Intermediate sealing: ideal for fixing layers of paint before applying washes or filters, acting as a barrier between techniques.
• High-handling models: especially recommended for pieces that are frequently handled, such as slot cars, gaming figures, or display models.

Compatibility and mixtures

Micro Coat Gloss is compatible with water-based acrylic paints and adheres well to primed or painted plastic. One of its most practical features is that it can be mixed with other finishes from the MICRO line —matte and satin— to achieve a custom intermediate sheen level. It can also be diluted with water in small proportions to adjust the viscosity according to the application method.

Application tips

• Shake the bottle well before use to homogenise the resin.
• Apply in thin layers with a soft-haired brush or airbrush, avoiding accumulations in detailed areas.
• Allow to dry completely between layers. At room temperature, drying is quick, but it is advisable to wait at least 30 minutes before applying decals.
• In very humid environments, drying time may increase; it is recommended to work in a ventilated space.
• If mixing with the matte finish to reduce gloss, do so in small proportions and test on a sample piece before applying to the final model.

Ideal for

• Static modelers in any scale.
• Figure painters and diorama builders.
• Slot enthusiasts who want to protect the bodies of their cars from continuous handling.
• Anyone working with water decals who wants to ensure a professional finish.

Frequently asked questions

Is it necessary to use Micro Coat Gloss before applying decals?

It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. A glossy surface eliminates the microtextures of the paint that cause the "silvering" effect on decals. It is the step that most differentiates the result of an amateur modeler from that of an experienced one.

Can I apply it directly onto plastic without priming?

The varnish adheres to plastic, but it is always preferable to work on a primed and painted surface to achieve better adhesion results and a more uniform finish.

How do I achieve a satin finish with this product?

By mixing Micro Coat Gloss with the matte finish from the MICRO line in the desired proportions. The range is designed to be combined with each other, allowing for precise adjustment of sheen.

Is it compatible with paints from brands like Vallejo, Tamiya, or Ammo?

Yes. Being a water-based acrylic varnish, it is compatible with acrylic paints from the leading brands on the market. It is always recommended to perform a test on a hidden area of the model first.

Can it be used with an airbrush?

Yes. For airbrush use, it can be slightly diluted with water to achieve the appropriate viscosity. Work with low pressures and medium distances to avoid runs.

How long does it take to dry?

At room temperature, it dries to the touch in a few minutes, but it is advisable to wait at least 30 minutes before applying decals or additional layers to ensure complete curing.

Micro Coat Gloss is a water-based acrylic gloss varnish from the MICRO finishes range, designed for scale modelers, figure painters, and diorama builders. Its clear acrylic resin formula bonds firmly to plastic and painted surfaces, creating a smooth, hard-wearing finish that prevents silvering when applying waterslide decals. It can be blended with other MICRO finishes to achieve custom sheen levels. A must-have product for anyone working with decals, protective coatings, or multi-technique painting workflows in scale modeling, dioramas, and miniature painting.