1. Den of Angels is closing in August 2026. New account registrations are closed. Please see this thread in Den of Angels news for important information: /threads/the-future-of-den-of-angels.893314/
    Dismiss Notice

Supplies Liquitex Matt varnish spray, is it safe to use on face-ups?

Sep 19, 2022

Watch Thread
    1. I've been using Munitorum varnish but noticed that they've changed the formula somehow since the new cans I have now leave my dolls annoyingly shiny faced so I've been looking alternatives to use.

      I bought few cans of MSC but the weather has been so bad that I haven't had chance to actually try it out and I don't want to waste it in bad conditions. (It's always either too hot, to cold, too humid...)

      Then I stumbled upon Liquitex Matt varnish spray which looks promising, can states it's water based, low odor, usable in wider range of temperatures, has UV-protection and apparently is not too picky about humidity either etc. So the perfect option.... Right? But then I got worried since I couldn't find mentions of anyone using it.

      So I'm asking: has anyone actually used it? I know the sponge on and airbrush methods with liquitex are popular, but has anyone tested the spray version? And if yes, how's the texture? Is it safe on resin? Durability? Does it yellow quickly? What about dolls with darker skins, does it lighten them up a lot? Do you recommend it? Any other things to note regarding it?
       
      #1 digi, Sep 19, 2022
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    2. I've used the spray version of liquitex in the past. It's tricky to use because the nozzles are very prone to blocking up and it can make getting an even layer a little difficult. It does yellow over time but this can be prevented by using thin layers. It takes a lot longer to dry than other sealants I've used but that's not a bad thing! It's got a good level of tooth, so pastels grip it quite well and it's super tough once throughly set (on the flip side of that it can take a lot of effort to remove). It's perfectly safe to use, so go for it!

      ETA - I haven't used it on darker resin. I have only used it on white, pale fantasy tones and transparent resin. It's a little waxy looking, so it may work on dark resin, but I can't say for sure whether or not you'll get frosting.
       
      #2 beatnik, Sep 19, 2022
      Last edited: Sep 19, 2022
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    3. Thank you for your response! Nozzles blocking seems to be a thing with their sprays, I noticed this particular store also sold packages of spare nozzles so I'll likely grab a package of those too when I'll inevitably go back to pick it up. How long drying times should I give it? The can said 12 hours but it can't be that long for a bjd with thin layer(s) right? :sweat
       
      #3 digi, Sep 19, 2022
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    4. It takes longer than most other sealants I've used but not 12 hours (that's just to fully cure). I left mine about 30 minutes between each layer.
       
      #4 beatnik, Sep 20, 2022
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    5. If you are interested, I have been using Army Painter Warpaints Air: Anti-Shine Varnish ($6.50 USD plus shipping - and they ship to US and Europe) on several of my dolls.
      Dries in about 5 minutes (but I give it about 15). Gives me a nice, toothy finish.
      I've used it multiple times now. It's odorless, water-based, and listed as non-toxic. I have been delighted with it so far. I can't smell anything when I use it. It washes off anything it shouldn't be on with a little soap and water (like my hands). And most importantly - it does NOT clog up the airbrush.

      They also have a spray can version for $13.50 USD plus shipping.

      What drove me to the airbrush, however, was that in order to properly seal a doll (based upon reading here, watching YouTube videos, and personal experience), you have to stand a good foot (30 cm) minimum away from the doll when you spray.

      I did this with MSC. I used up a LOT of product - and about half of it blew away. That's like throwing money into the wind to me. With an airbrush, I have more control over how much sealant I use, and the spray radius is much smaller.
       
      #5 MaleficentMrsofEvil, Sep 25, 2022
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 3
Draft saved Draft deleted
Toggle Width
Styler
Styler
Color Options
Color Options