SURFACE & LAYERING ADVISOR
Plan the layer stack before color matching begins
Surface preparation, primer, medium, film thickness, opacity, and finish can change both adhesion and perceived color. Build a conservative test workflow for the materials in front of you.
CONSERVATIVE WORKFLOW
acrylic on resin
1. Prepare
- Wash mold-release residue with mild detergent.
- Lightly key glossy resin and remove all dust.
2. Prime / ground
Use a compatible adhesion primer in thin, complete coats; test unknown plastic first.
3. Thin and apply
Use water sparingly; acrylic medium preserves binder strength when thinning substantially.
Plan about 3 thin, even coats rather than one heavy coat.
4. Dry and judge
Acrylic can feel dry before the film has cured. Delay masking and hard handling.
Matte films can lighten visually and mark from handling; compare only after the surface is fully dry.
Test first: Adhesion is the main risk. Make a cross-hatch or scratch test on a hidden sample after the full stated cure time.
MATERIAL LIMITS
A recipe cannot guarantee adhesion
This advisor gives a cautious starting workflow, not manufacturer-specific compatibility approval. Read the labels and technical data for primer, paint, medium, varnish, and substrate when failure would be costly.
Opacity is a recorded estimate. Ground color, brush loading, thinning, pigment, and film thickness determine real coverage; keep a sample card for repeatable layer counts.