Is it essential to varnish framed figures

[Daveum79]

I have a print in a mainiature box frame that also includes a little figurine painted with vallejo model paints. The actual figure is hand made using milliput. When I've tried varnishing I find some colours especially dark, run into lighter colours so I'm having to repaint. I've found that sealing with matt mod podge after painting works best prior to sealing with varnish and the paints don't run at all. However, it's very labour intensive when trying to complete a number of frames with figures and I can't increase my end selling price to reflect the additional time.

Would framing directly after painting without varnish make any difference considering figures won't be touched? I understand that sunlight can possibly have some effect regarding discolouration over time but just wondered if anyone has had any success with vallejo paints in similar circumstances?

I look forward to any advice given.

 

[Blind Pew]

A basic answer would be 'no.' I cannot see the value in varnishing them. If colours have run, it would suggest to me that either the paints weren't totally dry (unlikely) or the varnish and paint reacted badly. If using a water based paint like Vallejo, consider a water based varnish if you still feel the need.

 

[fogie]

Don't really understand why you feel the need to varnish. Whatever medium
you use - oils, acrylics, enamels, whatever - when painting is finished there's
really no need to add another layer. Remember that old saw.....if it ain't broke
don't mend it !

Mike

 

[Larsen E. Whipsnade]

I use Vallejo acrylics and on occasion I've sprayed my finished piece with Testor's Dullcote with no damage to the painted surface. For the most part I haven't found it necessary to add a varnish finish coat to my work.
Rick

 

[Gary D]

I occasionally varnish between coats and let it dry before painting the next area. I find if I slip a bit while painting a different area of the fig, varnish helps avoid staining the original colour. It's also easier to remove unwanted paint and saving having to paint the whole area again. eg. painting a belt on a figure and slipping and getting brown paint on white pants etc.
Also, when I paint eyes, I base coat the whole eye with acrylic paint, varnish, then paint the pupil with oils. If i make an error, it's easy to wipe off and start again.

 

[Nap]

Hi

I don't varnish on busts but do use a matting solution if required on clothing

I would say there's no need to varnish unless you might want to enhance a material like leather belts

Nap