Washes (Enamel Based)

[pzl66]

This subject has been beat to death it seems, I used to use Florys washes in the past but no longer use them. I bough the AK Interactive wash (but did not buy their thinner ) so my question is what is a safe thinner to use with this enamel wash? I have a coat of Mr Color (acrylic) gloss clear on the model now, is an odorless turpenoid safe to use to clean up the wash on the acrylic gloss coat?

[mostrich]

If your acrylic layer is a water-soluble one you should be safe. But please always keep in mind that nearly all manufacturers are pretty unspecific when using terms like 'acrylic', 'odorless thinner' or even 'lacquer'. To be sure, take a damp cloth or cotton bud on a safe spot of your model and test it. Even when it works, always use small amounts of thinner and don't rub too hard.
My favourite barrier coat for anything enamel or lacquer on top of it is Alclad's Aqua Gloss. Comes close to Future in its characteristics but dries faster and is more durable.

[Stikpusher]

I have yet to come across a case of where enamel washes could not be cleaned up with enamel thinners, either generic or branded, and effect a clear acrylic base coat that has dried & cured. The only caveat I might add is not to let the enamel wash dry for too many days. Then you may have a hard time cleaning up excess. But if you do the clean up immediately after the wash dries, you’ll be great.
Personally, I prefer using a nice soft sable brush, lightly moistened with thinner for enamel and oil wash clean ups. That won’t leave behind any fiber residue on your model as cloth or cotton balls/swabs can do.

[pzl66]

Thank you gents

[speedgraflex]

I like Humbrol’s solvent for AKI, MM/Testors, Floquil and Humbrol too of course. It flows a tad more smoothly than the others I tried so far. I found what both Torben and Carlos wrote incredibly helpful. Thanks for asking the question!

[Tojo72]

AK washes were pretty hot,be sure all your coats are thoroughly cured,I had some grief with that.

[pzl66]

AK washes were pretty hot,be sure all your coats are thoroughly cured,I had some grief with that.

What paint did you use below it and what type? What was the clear you used?

[Tojo72]

Sorry its been awhile,MM enamel was the base,either Testors lacquer clear or Vallejo Acrylic Varnish.Sorry not much help,just wanted to get that general warning out there.

[Scruffy]

AK washes were pretty hot,be sure all your coats are thoroughly cured,I had some grief with that.

Yep, I'll second that for sure. If you miss a corner or nook or cranny with your clear coat the AK washes will find it If your gloss coat is nice and smooth, usually about 20-30 minutes after you apply the wash you can just buff the excess off. I usually use White Spirt to remove or blend stubborn areas.

[pzl66]

Found out it works well on the Mr Aqueous Gloss!