I solved my problem with Dullcote

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I build a fair number of almost-prototypically accurate models of Delaware & Hudson locomotives (steam and Diesel) and cabooses, all in HO. Most of the time, I weather the rolling stock with Bragdon chalks after I liberally coat the model with Testors Dullcote.

Every time I’ve used Dullcote, I have to be alert to remove tiny particles that look like airborne dust. I use a Paasche spray hood and paint in an upstairs bedroom with good air circulation. I use a single action internal mix brush and I’ve changed to a new bottle of Dullcote, with the same result - little tiny fibers attached to the finished model. Quick action with a pair of tweezers solves it but that’s a lot of work.

I decided to try one of the acrylic clear flat “paints.” I bought Testors Model Master acryl clear flat coat and their $6.00 recommended thinner. Today was the first “go” at it and I found the results to be exemplary. NO dust particles or tiny fibers. And the finish looks every bit as good as with Dullcote, with the added advantage that you can handle the model within a half-hour of coating it. Like most acrylics, I won’t really be hardened for a day or so but I was able to assemble my latest caboose model and install all the plastic window inserts. So far, I highly recommend Model Master clear flat paint.

2

Just curious what thinner your using? They don’t list an acrylic thinner on their site. Only enamel and lacquer. Were you using lacquer thinner with the Testors dull coat and still getting those fuzzies?
I found some acrylic spray dull coat at Hobby Lobby that works even better than the Krylon stuff.
Made by a company called Crafts Etc.

3

I used Testor’s new thinner meant for the acryl line of Model Masters paints, as well as all their other paints except enamels or lacquers. The hobby shop proprietor told me this is a new product. I don’t remember what it is called, but I am sold on how well it worked with the Model Masters acryl clear flat paint.

When I was using Dullcote, I tried using Testors thinner meant for Dullcote as well as plain old lacquer thinner. I had problems with either approach. Unless I find a difficulty with the acryl product on my next weathering project, I will switch permanently. Dealing with the dust particle problem with Dullcote was exasperating.