hello

i was wondering if i could use Tamiya's X-21 (Flat Base) or X-22 (Clear) to seal off decals instead of using Future?

thanks

Well you can. It's what I use instead of Future

X-22 clear you can. BUT DO NOT use the flat base it is a paint additive and not meant to be used by itself!

Any idea on what will happen if I use it straight? (Aside from ruining the paintjob ofcourse)

flat base is an additive for paint to make them duller. If you put too much in the paint the paint dries grey and powdery which means a strip down Job. Believe me I have been there and had to do exactly that.

I assume the same results from using it straight will also occur.

thanks for the quick reply guys

so, after i seal it (decal) with X-22 (clear), It turns out glossy right?

so how do i 'ungloss' the part ?

You can mix it with future..... for a sealer..... I don't remember the qty's of each though......

A simpler way is to spray it with a rattle can of Dullcoat (Lustreless). No need to measure and mix.
Just be sure to mask off any items you want to stay glossy.

If you wish to use flattened Future as a final coat here are a couple of suggested ratios of Tamiya flat base for different effects:
1 part flat base to 3 parts Future = very flat
1 part flat base to 10 parts Future = flat
1 part flat base to 15 parts Future = satin
If you get too much of anybody's flat base on the surface of your model you run the risk of making it all go white. No thinning is required just make sure it is well mixed.

(Recipe from Swanny... at the ARC forums)

Jim

I agree with T Terrific. Since getting back into modeling about two years ago, the Modelmaster Acryl Flat and Gloss clear coats are the only products I have used and they perform very well.

Keith

I also use just flat and gloss from humbrol thinning it 50/50 with enamel thinners.

Is X-22 (Clear) glossy after i apply it? Or is the finish flat?

thanks