I am currently attempting to drybrush a model. I am using XtraColor enamels. After thorough mixing, I dip the brush into the paint and wipe away the excess paint into a paper towel. When I do this, the paint appears to become traslucent and watery. Then, When I try to then drybrush, the paint is too thin and nothing happens. I have stirred the paints well and am familiar with drybrushing but I cannot figure out the problem.
Please help,
Andrew.

Correct me if I'm wrong but, I think XtraColors are a gloss.
If so, the paint for the drybrush has no "teeth" to grab the paint because the surface is smooth. Try to apply a flat coat first.
If they already are flat, it could be because they are oil based. Oils will certainly leave a translucent color behind. Try to use "non-oils".

Thanks Kencelot, sounds like sound advice. I did apply a matt varnish coat before the attempt at drybrushing though. What brand of paint would you suggest for me opposed to the Xtra Colors?
Andrew

There are many other brands that would work for you; LifeColors, Model Masters, Humbrols, Gunze Sangyo, Tamiyas.
It's a matter of whats available to you and if you want enamels or acrylics.

Kencelot, don't enamels work better for drybrushing due to there slow drying time?

Andrew

I too have experienced a similar problem but with Humbrol enamels. These were also flat colours and oddly sometimes a translucent smear resulted and other times it did not.I wondered if not mixing the paint frequently had resulted in more solvent than paint was present on the brush.

Nope. I use acrylics exclusively for all painting.

I always liked old, as in very thick, Polly S acrylics for drybrushing. Ive had success with oils and enamels as well. Virtually all ny paints are flats so I have never come across that problem with gloss.

Hi

I don't drybrush much, but when I have, I found oils to be the easiest to use. I think the slow drying time may be part of that.

And a very matt surface seems best. Maybe you did not use enough varnish?

Andy