Gloss clear varnish 10ml

Glossy finish and long-lasting protection for your modelling projects

The Tamiya Clear Gloss Varnish (TA87151) is an essential finishing product in any modeller's workshop. Its formulation provides a transparent, high-gloss protective layer that seals the paint, preserves decals, and gives a professional appearance to the overall piece. With its 10ml format, it is very practical for specific tasks and for those who prefer to keep several finishes on hand without taking up too much space.

Recommended applications and uses

This varnish is designed for use on static models, figures, dioramas, and painted miniatures in scale. Its most common applications include:

• Final sealing of paint to protect it from wear and the passage of time.
• Fixing decals, enhancing their visual integration into the surface.
• Creating effects of polished, lacquered, or enamelled surfaces on bodies and metal elements.
• Intermediate base before applying filters or effects, facilitating their subsequent removal if necessary.

Compatibility and finishes

The varnish is compatible with Tamiya's own acrylic paints, as well as with acrylics from other leading brands in the sector such as Vallejo, Kaleido, or Ammo. It is advisable to ensure that the base coat of paint is fully cured before applying it, especially when working with enamels or oil paints.

The result is a glossy, crystal-clear, and homogeneous finish, without yellowing or altering the underlying colours. Highly valued for scale vehicle bodies, glass or clear plastic elements, and any surface that should evoke polished or lacquered materials.

Application tips

• Brush: apply in thin, even layers, avoiding accumulations that may generate bubbles or brush marks. Allow to dry completely between layers.
• Airbrush: dilute slightly with Tamiya acrylic thinner if you find the viscosity is high for your equipment. Low pressures and cross passes yield the best results.
• Apply in a dust-free environment with stable ambient temperature to avoid a milky effect (blush).
• In very humid environments, take extra precautions: humidity can interfere with drying and final gloss.

Frequently asked questions

Is this varnish suitable for airbrush use?

Yes, it can be applied with an airbrush. It is recommended to dilute it slightly with Tamiya acrylic thinner for finer atomisation and a more homogeneous finish.

Can I apply it over paints from other brands besides Tamiya?

Generally, it is compatible with acrylic paints from brands like Vallejo, Kaleido, or Ammo, as long as the base coat is well dried and cured. We recommend testing it on a sacrificial piece before applying it to the final work.

What is the difference between this gloss varnish and a satin or matte varnish?

The gloss varnish maximises light reflection, giving a polished and lacquered appearance. The satin offers a middle ground, and the matte virtually eliminates all gloss. The choice depends on the effect you want to achieve on the final piece.

Is it necessary to apply varnish between layers of paint?

It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended before placing decals: the gloss varnish eliminates micro-imperfections on the surface and prevents the "decal edge" effect (silvering). It is also useful as an intermediate protective layer before applying filters or washes.

Does the varnish yellow over time?

Tamiya's formulation is designed to maintain transparency without yellowing, although, like any acrylic product, prolonged exposure to direct and intense sunlight can affect the finish in the long term. For display pieces, keep your models protected from direct light.

Tamiya X-22 Clear varnish, gloss transparent finish, 10ml modelling varnish for scale models, figures and dioramas. Compatible with acrylic paints, ideal for decal setting and final coat protection. Suitable for brush and airbrush application. A trusted finishing product for scale modelling enthusiasts worldwide.