Mr. Color C46 Gloss Clear: The Ultimate Top Coat for Gunpla

If you're into Gunpla, you know that a top coat can make or break your build. Among the many options, Mr. Color C46 Gloss Clear stands out as a favorite among hobbyists. This gloss clear coat not only protects your paint job but also gives your kit a shiny, showroom finish. In this article, we'll dive into what makes C46 special and how to apply it for the best results.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned builder, understanding the nuances of gloss clear coats is essential. From prepping your model to dealing with common issues like bubbles and orange peel, we've got you covered. Let's get started.

Why Choose Mr. Color C46 Gloss Clear?

Mr. Color C46 is a lacquer-based gloss clear coat from the renowned Mr. Hobby line. It's designed to provide a durable, glossy finish that enhances the colors underneath. Unlike flat or matte coats, gloss clear adds depth and shine, making it ideal for automotive-style finishes, candy coats, or when you want to apply decals smoothly.

One of the biggest advantages of C46 is its compatibility with other Mr. Color paints. It can be used straight from the bottle or thinned with Mr. Color Thinner for airbrushing. It also works well with enamel and acrylic paints, making it a versatile addition to your workbench. For a reliable finish, many builders consider it a staple in their paint collection.

• Durable lacquer formula that protects your paint job.
• Enhances color depth and provides a glossy shine.
• Works well with decals and panel lining.

Preparing Your Gunpla for Gloss Coating

Before you even open the bottle of C46, ensure your model is clean and free of dust. Any particles on the surface will be trapped under the clear coat, ruining the finish. Use a soft brush or air duster to remove debris. If you've handled the kit, consider washing it with mild soap and water to remove oils from your skin.

If you're painting, make sure the paint is fully cured before applying the gloss coat. This usually takes at least 24 hours. For bare plastic, a quick wipe with isopropyl alcohol can help remove any mold release agents. Taking these steps ensures a smooth, even application.

• Clean the model with a soft brush or air duster.
• Wash with soapy water if needed to remove oils.
• Allow paint to cure completely before coating.

Application Methods: Spray vs. Brush

The most common and recommended method for applying C46 is using an airbrush. Thin the paint with Mr. Color Thinner at a ratio of about 1:1.5 (paint to thinner). Spray in light, even coats from a distance of 15-20 cm. Build up the gloss gradually—two to three thin coats are better than one thick coat, which can lead to runs or orange peel.

If you don't have an airbrush, you can brush it on, but be prepared for brush strokes. Use a wide, soft brush and apply in long, even strokes. Thin the paint slightly more for brushing to avoid clumps. While brushing is possible, airbrushing gives a much more professional result.

• Airbrush: thin 1:1.5 with Mr. Color Thinner.
• Spray light coats from 15-20 cm away.
• Brush: use a soft, wide brush and thin more.

Applying Decals and Panel Lining

One of the key benefits of a gloss coat is that it provides a smooth surface for decals. Water-slide decals adhere better and are less likely to silver. Apply your decals after the gloss coat has fully dried. You can then apply a second gloss coat to seal them in.

Panel lining is another area where gloss helps. The smooth surface allows the panel line accent color to flow easily into the recesses. After lining, you can clean up excess with a cotton swab dipped in lighter fluid or enamel thinner without damaging the gloss coat.

• Apply decals on a glossy surface to prevent silvering.
• Seal decals with a second gloss coat.
• Panel line after gloss for easier cleanup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced builders encounter problems. Bubbles in the clear coat are often caused by spraying too close or with too much pressure. If you see bubbles, let the coat dry, then sand lightly with fine grit (e.g., 2000) and recoat. Orange peel texture can happen if the paint is too thick or applied in cold, humid conditions. Try thinning more and spraying from a bit farther away.

Another issue is cloudiness or a frosty appearance, which can occur if you apply the coat in high humidity. To avoid this, work in a well-ventilated, dry area. If cloudiness happens, you can sometimes fix it by applying a thin coat of gloss in better conditions.

• Bubbles: spray farther away, lower pressure.
• Orange peel: thin more, adjust distance.
• Cloudiness: apply in dry conditions.

Recommended Products for Your Build

While C46 is a star, it's not the only product you might need. For a complete finish, consider using a flat or matte coat for certain parts to create contrast. Citadel offers a range of shades and washes that work well with lacquer coats. For instance, Citadel Shade: Seraphim Sepia 18ml can add depth to crevices, and Citadel Contrast: Cygor Brown 18ml is great for leather or wood textures. These complement your gloss coat beautifully.

If you're building a detailed kit like the MG Gundam Age II Magnum, having the right tools is essential. The Mineshima Plastic Model Tool Set Middle PT-200 includes nippers, files, and other essentials for a clean build. And for those who love display pieces, the One Piece Going Merry Model kit is a fun side project that benefits from a gloss coat for a shiny finish.

• Use Citadel shades and contrasts for extra detail.
• Invest in quality tools like the Mineshima set.
• Try a gloss coat on non-Gunpla kits for a unique finish.

Mr. Color C46 Gloss Clear is a must-have for any Gunpla builder looking to achieve a professional, glossy finish. With the right techniques, you can avoid common pitfalls and make your models stand out. Remember to practice on spare parts and always work in a clean, dry environment. Happy building!