Quick paint question

[Wild Raspberry]

Hey ponies!
 
I just had a quick question on how all of you lovely custom people paint your ponies. I have only painted one pony for which I used just a cheapish acrylic paint which I watered down a bit to make it smooth.  I am very pleased with the result except for one thing.  The paint has no gloss and is very flat.  Nearly all G3s have at least some sort of shine, even if it is very minor and I was wondering how you replicate that (if there is a way)?

Thanks for any advice,
WR

[Kazzellin]

There's a chance that matte paint may stay matter, but you can hit it up with a cost or three of something like Modge Podge gloss, or triple thick; as long as it's gloss/glossy finish, it'll make the paint shiny (in theory). Either way, you want to seal the paint job so it won't just rub off the pony.

Good luck!

[Griffin]

Well you can't exactly replicate the look of pony vinyl, but any sort of sealant typically helps give painted ponies a subtle shine, a "finished look", like Kazzellin mentioned. If glossy sealants seem too much, you can try matte or satin. I love polyurethane because it's waterproof (unlike Mod Podge) and even the matte variety gives a plasticky sheen. Matte spray varnishes, while preferred by many customizers, often do not noticeably change the look of the paint so if it's a bit of shine you want, brush-on sealants are probably your best bet. Good luck!

[Mami Tomoe]

modge podge or clear glue could work

[artful_fox_customs]

I use matte mod podge and it gives a plasticy look to the doll. Though, I would go for maybe a satin or gloss water proof sealant.

[Wild Raspberry]

Thanks for all the replies! It seems like Mod Podge Matte or Gloss, or polyurethane seems to be the thing to try! 

[TwistedRiver]

I would avoid Mod Podge if you can find something else as a number of the customs my sister and I made years ago that we used Mod Podge on have gotten a little bit sticky as changes in season seem to be enough to alter it enough.

[Em_L._Pea_Customs]

I have used Testors Dullcote for years.  It comes in a spray can and cost around $5.  One can will seal several ponies.  http://www.michaels.com/10060935.html#q=testors+dullcote&start=1

Mod Podge is fine if watered down to the consistency of milk and sponged on...otherwise it seems to be too thick and can get sticky/tacky after exposed to humidity.  Mod Podge cannot be exposed to water either.  Glossy Mod Podge is going to be very shiny, whereas Matte does give a nice soft sheen.

I only recommend Triple Thick on eyes or symbols that you want to appear very glossy.  It gives a "wet" look.  It can be smudged even after curing if heavy pressure is applied. 

Good luck!  


ETA:  link

[Thrice]

I second the Testors recommendation for sealant.