Question about pigments

[MarkofZollo]

Hi, I recently got some Mig pigments to finally finish off (hopefully) a few models, but having applied some of this I am wondering how I keep it on the tank?
To anyone who uses pigments, what is best for 'locking' them in at lowest price poss? (I have used mainly enamel based paints on the models with a little acrylic here and there if that helps/changes anything?)
Thanks in advance for any help guys
Dave

[grim_marmazet]

Hi Dave,

The best thing to use is Mig's Pigment Fixer. If your after a dusty effect, dab the pigments on with a brush, then airbrush the fixer on. For a muddy effect, either mix the pigments with fixer and apply, or dabe the pigments on and then dab the fixer over it.

Once the fixer is dry, it'll be permanently on, so practice on some spare plastic first to get the right effect.

Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Rik

[MarkofZollo]

Thanks for the reply Rik! I was hoping to spray it on but dont have an airbrush, is brushing it on likely to affect the finish or 'move' any of the pigment?
I have found some info on this site about using matt varnish but I couldnt find any sprays in town, I guess I need stuff specifically for enamels?
Cheers,
Dave

[sparks]

Dave,
I would deffinately invest in a air brush, there're not that expensive, and when I started , a got a small compressor from e-Bay for £20, still going strong. With a bit of practice you can do all sorts of finishes and camo patterns, you'll wonder how you ever managed without one.
sparks

[MarkofZollo]

Sparks, I have found a couple airbrushes and compressors on ebay, I may add it to my christmas list. For now though I would like to just finish off some models with a spray can of varnish if that will work? Will something like this be good :
http://www.modelsforsale.com/catalog/pr ... _id=379054" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Cheers

[sparks]

Sparks, I have found a couple airbrushes and compressors on ebay, I may add it to my christmas list. For now though I would like to just finish off some models with a spray can of varnish if that will work? Will something like this be good :
http://www.modelsforsale.com/catalog/pr ... _id=379054" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Cheers

Hi Dave, I've never used it so can't be sure,looks ok, my only concern is it might be a bit heavy.
You could have a practice on something first to get the feel of it.
sparks

[MarkofZollo]

I bought some of this today;
http://www.anticsonline.co.uk/2044_1_2998273.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
and sprayed it on some pigment but I think I did it a bit thick, it seems to have removed most of the dusty pigment I had applied.
Is that due to doing it too thickly or perhaps incompatibility with the pigment?
Cheers,
Dave

[MarkofZollo]

Ok so the Humbrol stuff pretty much changes the colour, more like mud now than dust, and a lot was blown away I guess by the propelant. Following Saxondog's advice I got some Ronseal matt varnish, but brushing this on has'nt worked. I think I may just bite the bullet and get a cheap airbrush, one that can be used with aerosol cans as well as a compressor 'cos I cant find one at a good price (for now anyway). I will start by testing the Ronseal airbrushed over dusty pigments, if that does'nt work I will try white spirit as I have read that may work, can anyone confirm this? Otherwise I saw alcohol as an alternative but not sure what exactly? (Most of model painted with enamel)
If these dont work Il just try to get the Mig Pigment fixer and airbrush that on as a final move.
If anyone has any advice, answers or can tell me what they use (to what success too) please let me know, will be greatly appreciated!!!

[MarkofZollo]

Ok I have the Pigment fixer now, works quite well. About to get an airbrush but I am curious so I spray it on neat or dilute it at all??????
Cheers, Dave