If you wish to use decals then yes you have to gloss coat the model. that is why i prefer to paint the markings on, it saves a few steps. I recomend using future as a gloss and then Tamiya flat clear
the sole purpose of this build was to test wash techniques. I mixed oil paint (in this case olive green) with Mig thinner, then i spread it all over the tank . it turned out a little sloppy in some areas but most of that can be hidden with further weathering. the road wheels have been given a heavier wash than the rest of the kit.
I had not heard of the term "filter" until a few months ago, while i understand the concept I dont really get the difference between that and a wash.
A wash will always tend to alter the base colour and give visual depth to the model by filling the recesses with a darker shade of the base.
I am not saying its a bad thing I just dont see the need for an extra step.
you may want to try out some painting/weathering techniques on a cheap kit before potentially ruining something that you really want to look good.
the paint/weathering on a model is the most important part of all. a mediocre kit can look fantastic with a good paint job. but i have seen many superdetailed masterworks completely ruined by a lousy paint job.
I hope i have answered you questions adequately.
Dylan
