You've spent hours on that paint job. Varnish is what stops it rubbing off the first time someone picks the model up. A thin coat seals the paint against chips, handling and sweaty dice-rolling fingers, and lets you choose the final sheen.
Matt, satin or gloss?
- Matt (anti-shine): kills the shine for a natural, realistic finish. The default for most miniatures, and kind to a slightly uneven paint job.
- Ultra matt: flatter still, popular with scale modellers and anyone photographing their models.
- Satin: a subtle sheen that suits power armour, vehicles and leather.
- Gloss: the toughest protective coat, and the right finish for gems, eyes, fresh blood and slime. Scale modellers also gloss before applying decals so the carrier film disappears.
Spray, brush-on or airbrush?
Spray varnish is the fastest way to seal a whole army in one go; shake it well and avoid cold or humid days, which can leave a frosty finish. Brush-on varnish gives you total control for small batches and spot effects. Airbrush varnishes go on thin and even, ideal if you already own an airbrush. A common trick: a gloss coat for protection first, then matt on top for the look.
Our picks
- Army Painter Anti-Shine Matt Varnish (400ml spray): the army-sealing classic that keeps metallics looking like metal.
- Citadel Technical: 'Ardcoat: brush-on gloss for gems, eyes and gore.
- Army Painter Air Anti-Shine Matt Varnish: airbrush-ready matt.
- AK Interactive 3rd Gen Ultra Matt Varnish: properly flat, for display pieces.
Not sure where varnish fits in your process? Our top tools for model makers guide covers it alongside primers and brushes. Starting from bare plastic? Browse spray paints and primers.
