Clear coating Aluminum Black lightsaber?

[lostinperiphery]

Since I only get one shot at this, I thought it appropriate to ask advice first... what’s everyone’s favorite clear coat for hilts/parts weathered using Birchwood Casey Aluminum Black?

I recently finished my first electronics install on a saber, but discovered shortly after that my weathering was rubbing off rather quickly underneath my hands, leaving a splotchy appearance. I’ve since re-applied the Aluminum Black to make it more consistent, and would like to protect it from wearing off again.

 

[James Kenobi 1138]

I would use Testors or Tamiya clear flat because they are lacquer based so they dry quickly and they are pretty durable.

 

[thd9791]

Can you lacquer over enamel paint? Asking for a... friend

I've always used Rustoleum satin clear with mixed results

 

[Verity Cosplay]

+1 to thd9791. I use rustoleum matte or satin clear to seal.

 

[James Kenobi 1138]

Yes, lacquer can react with enamel but I thought the lightsaber was just bare metal and Aluminum Black, so it should be okay.

 

[lostinperiphery]

Awesome. Threw down a few coats of Rustoleum Satin. Looks good, and will hopefully hold up

 

[ZeroSum]

Is that Rustoleum Satin the 2x Ultra Cover or the Stops Rust version? Or a different version altogether?

 

[Verity Cosplay]

Is that Rustoleum Satin the 2x Ultra Cover or the Stops Rust version? Or a different version altogether?

not sure if this is to the OP but I tend to use the basic white can with the red banner in matte clear.

 

[ZeroSum]

Does this look like this can? We have a limited selection of Rustoleum in NZ, so I'm just trying to figure out if you guys are talking about a version that we have

 

[Verity Cosplay]

Does this look like this can? We have a limited selection of Rustoleum in NZ, so I'm just trying to figure out if you guys are talking about a version that we have

View attachment 1340489

yep. That one. Tho I use matte usually not satin but sometimes satin. But yes that stuff.

 

[Wells]

I'm in the UK so it's pretty much impossible to get a clear enamel that's not gloss. I use cellulose, drys fast and extremely hard wearing. I used to use Matt on the v2's buy I've moved over to Satin as it has a lovely sheen to it.

These 2 have satin cellulose on, except for on the pommels, those I've not bothered with.

 

[Mara Jade's Father]

You can use a sealer that they use in crafts. They have matte finish and I use it for many prop related projects. Here is an example but I am sure your local craft store has other brand options and other finish option

https://www.amazon.com/Mod-Podge-1469-Acrylic-Sealer/dp/B003VY9DNM