AlClad chrome topcoat?

[BigSki]

I've been farting around w/ the AlClad chrome paint for styrene, I'm getting better at making it have the reflective 'look' to it that I've been after. Once this stuff dries, it is very easily scratched. Should I be clear coating it to protect the shiny surface?

[STANG KILLA SS]

i know alot of silvers loose there luster when clear cloated. looking more grey than silver. this might be my fear with the chrome paint too.
but it could help too. maybe do some test peices?

[microgoat]

Alclad looks fantastic as long as you don't touch it after it dries. It's more for static models than something that'll get used. A top coat (I've tried just about everything) will dull the finish.

I've had good luck with Krylon Metal Effects Silver. You can find it in a craft store.

[BigSki]

Originally Posted by STANG KILLA SS

i know alot of silvers loose there luster when clear cloated. looking more grey than silver. this might be my fear with the chrome paint too.
but it could help too. maybe do some test peices?

Originally Posted by microgoat

Alclad looks fantastic as long as you don't touch it after it dries. It's more for static models than something that'll get used. A top coat (I've tried just about everything) will dull the finish.

I've had good luck with Krylon Metal Effects Silver. You can find it in a craft store.

Unfortunately, I've found this out the hard way. I tried Tamiya Acrylic clear on a test piece, it dulled the finish just as you guys said it would. This is getting aggravating, I want this model to look good and get used for Class 1 scale comps. It's starting to look like I can't have both.

[STANG KILLA SS]

for plastic parts i want to look like metal ive always used "aluminum" spray paint it seems to be the brightest and reflect the most. ive tried the cheap chrome spray paints, and they are very similiar the the aluminum id say.
of course its not reflective in a chrome sense. ie it has a weird micro texture, but that seems to be why it reflects light so much. kinda like forged wheels. they have there own shine and reflectiveness, but in a difference sence than chrome due to there machined surface.

im just babbling, i really dont have any help for ya