I have used a few different paints for gloss coats. I know that Future is preferred. I have also used lacquer, with great success. The problem I have with Future is that it takes multiple coats to get a glossy finish. So, how many coats of Future is necessary to obtain a gloss coat? I don't want to drown the details of thee kit with too many coats of paint.

Matt,

The simple answer: as many as it takes to get a nice, even gloss coat.

That may sound like a smarta$$ answer, but that's the truth. I've had as little as 2 coats to get a good finish and I think it depends on the paint and how much Future I apply at one time (menaing how far back I pull the trigger on my airbrush).

Best course of action? Experiment.

I go around the model about three times ... but quickly, so that small details do not get drowned and make sure of no pooling. I do this in one sitting and blow just air to dry, if an area is too wet. I place decals and do pretty much the same again after they have set. I probably go over the decals up to 10 times ... both to protect them from weathering later and also hide any traces of carrier film. Im quite happy afterwards as its almsot impossible to see that a decal is used!!

I've found that usually a mist coat, then two fairly heavy coats gives me a glossy enough surface for decaling. To blend the decals in a min of 1 mist coat, and 3 heavier coats. It all depends on just how thick the decals are which really vary by who makes the decals.
Joel

I think I will try thinning the Future and spraying several layers. Whenever I apply a heavy coat, I run into the Future pooling. I have a couple of practice models. I'll compare thinning the future to using lacquer and see which has better results.

Hi Matt. Theres no need to thin future. It might be better to adjust your airbrush slightly. Just make sure it is "wet" when it touches the model. I noramlly spray a little further away from the model than with paint.

Weather permitting, I'll experiment tomorrow.

I agree with Frank, i dont thin at all and only adjust pressure and sray a bit farther away but still do thin but wet coats usualy about 3 coats. HTH