An innovative technique for Greek standards is painting of a static model using nail polish.  This particular model (1967 Volkswagen Type-2 Pick-Up Truck Hasegawa 1/24) was painted that way, which give a glossy effect.

I used a mix of 50% nail polish and 50% leveling thinner and airbrushed it straight on the model.  Nail polishes are usually fine-grained paints and therefore multiple coats are needed for a better result.  In order to avoid unpleasant surprises, first filter your color using a net or tulle to remove any thick color grain that may be in the mix.  I always recommend priming your model before painting.  I used the gray primer by Humbrol in a spray can.

Masking was no problem, either with “lifting” the color underneath or masking tape marks.

Drying time is at least 10 hours.  The end result on the model is a perfect finish with an extra shine.  At the end, a couple of coats with gloss varnish will be needed.  I used a varnish by Vallejo in a spray can.

As it is a new technique for most modelers, the wanted result may not be achieved with the first attempt, like when we start painting our model with the conventional model paints and then we start dipping them in chlorine or spray them with an oven cleaner to remove the color and start all over again.  I had the same in our case and had to un-paint it twice. In order to remove the nail polish, the only thing I had to do was “raid” once again my wife’s beauty box and steal her acetone bottle!

Wetting a piece of cotton with acetone, I was able to remove the paint with ease, without affecting the coat of primer which was underneath.  Saying acetone, I always mean the soft one used by women to remove the nail polish and do not dip your model in it!

Obviously nail polish is applicable to civilian vehicles, trucks and even motorcycles as there is a wide range of color available that give a very glossy finish.

I wish you happy modeling!

Text by Konstantinos Siatis
Translated by George Roumbos