Is a clear coat really necessary?

[Kaczor]

Incidentally, does anyone with an in-depth knowledge of the German Tank industry know whether a protective coating was applied to camouflage schemes?

No. As the paint was hard as rock after drying (oil based probably?) So there was no need for more protection.

And about scratches - in case of models it depends of material model is made of. I.e. my full-pot-metal Sherman is silver underneath so damage looks not realistic.

[43rdRecceReg]

I use Peddinghaus water slide decals but they are not pre-cut so have to be cut out of the sheet. This leaves them with a thick cut edge which shows. Using decal softner can help but a coat of clear varnish sorts the problem. I use Tamiyas TS varnishes, various finishes, but always indoors in s warm, dry environment and it always works well and keeps well for years.

I have used enamel based washes on Tamiya acrylic varnishes without issues too.

Thanks, GJ. I've been looking at decal softeners/adhesives- Tamiya Mark Fit, etc.. but it seems that anything containing a solvent is expensive to get through the post here (Royal mail won't handle them)- in fact, such products must come come via couriers. This also applies to Tamiya's TS-80, which I wanted to buy. The Vallejo seems to be brush on only, but I'll give it a go on an old chassis.

[43rdRecceReg]

Started using Army Painter anti shine, done my Panther F with it. Just let the paint harden up for a few days , had a little reaction with a touch up i fixed a few hours earlier.
A review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHVmMVb0HTY

Thanks, Ronnie. The Army Painter looks like a product that ticks a lot of boxes. What's more, the company has an impressive and wide array of other products.

I've put it on my list at Amazon.

[silversurfer1947]

I have used the Vallejo acrylic varnish in my airbrush

[43rdRecceReg]

I have used the Vallejo acrylic varnish in my airbrush

Was that neat, Richard, or thinned?

[43rdRecceReg]

Thinking about decals and varnishes, here's an interesting comparison, if you have an hour- yes, an hour to spend. I think it's worthwhile.

phpBB [video]

For one moment, I though the contributor might be one of our own, as his name is Will Pattison. Almost the same name.