✅ - is clearcoat just trasparent paint?

[novel pawn]

It's my first time getting into the world of post processing and painting 3d prints, so this might be a very dumb question. From what I know, to get a good glossy look (that can later be polished) we first paint the part, and then apply several layers of clearcoat. What I have is a trasparent acrilyc paint that I was thinking I could use for the clearcoat. Or shouldn't I? What's the difference between clearcoat and trasparent acrilyc paint?

[stuck sparrow]

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[sharp zodiac]

Essentially it is, but clear coats are usually more robust as they are designed for cars, and usually have an anti uv yellowing agent.
This then makes great to polish after fully curing.
Depending on what you are making and it’s use ( cosplay or shelf prop etc) then your acrylic may suit.

[novel pawn]

Basically cosplay not for outdoor use

[sharp zodiac]

It’s worth a test and see, I haven’t used it but I feel it will be less durable than a spray on automotive clear, so maybe use it in areas with less contact points.
If it’s a matter of cost use it, you can always repair it after, if not get a clear automotive spray and go with that. Obviously be careful if clear coating metallics.

[novel pawn]

What do you mean by be careful?

[sharp zodiac]

Most metallics will lose shine and some golds will turn brown with clear coat on top, you need to test them before using and ruining your work.

[stuck sparrow]

This thread is closed now :white_check_mark: