After finishing a paint job, many hobbyists ask the same question: do you need to seal resin miniatures after painting. While sealing is sometimes skipped, it plays a major role in protecting your work and extending the life of the miniature.
In this guide, we explain how to seal resin miniatures after painting, why it matters, what products to use, and how to do it correctly without damaging details.
What Does Sealing a Resin Miniature Mean
Sealing, also called varnishing, means applying a thin protective layer over the painted surface. This layer protects the paint from wear, handling, and environmental factors.
A sealed miniature is more resistant to:
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paint chipping
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surface scratches
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frequent handling during gameplay
Sealing does not change the sculpt itself, only the surface protection.
Do You Really Need to Seal Resin Miniatures
A common question is:
Is sealing resin miniatures necessary
The answer depends on how the miniature will be used.
You should seal resin miniatures if:
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they are used for tabletop gaming
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they will be handled often
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you want long-term durability
For display-only models, sealing is still recommended but less critical.
When Should You Seal a Painted Resin Miniature
Timing matters.
Before sealing:
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all paint layers must be fully dry
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washes must be completely cured
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highlights should be finished
It is best to wait 12 to 24 hours after painting before applying varnish.
What Type of Varnish Should You Use
This is one of the most searched questions:
What varnish is best for resin miniatures
The answer depends on the finish you want.
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Matte varnish gives a natural, non-shiny look and is the most popular choice
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Satin varnish adds a slight sheen and works well for armor or leather
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Gloss varnish offers the strongest protection but adds shine
Many hobbyists use a gloss varnish first for strength, followed by matte varnish for appearance.
How to Apply Varnish Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Miniature
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remove dust with a soft brush
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handle the miniature by the base
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ensure the surface is clean and dry
Step 2: Apply Thin Coats
Whether using spray, airbrush, or brush-on varnish:
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apply light, even layers
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avoid pooling in recesses
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do not try to seal in one heavy coat
Thin coats preserve detail.
Step 3: Let the Varnish Cure
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allow at least 30 minutes between coats
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let the final coat cure 12 to 24 hours
Avoid touching the miniature while curing.
Common Sealing Mistakes
Beginners often ask:
Why does my varnish ruin the paint job
Common causes include:
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applying varnish too thick
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sealing in humid conditions
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touching the model too soon
Taking your time prevents most issues.
Can You Fix a Bad Varnish Job
Yes. Another frequent question is:
Can you fix cloudy or uneven varnish
In many cases:
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apply a thin gloss coat to restore clarity
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let it cure
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reapply matte varnish lightly
This often corrects the problem.
How Many Varnish Layers Are Enough
For most resin miniatures:
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one to two thin coats are sufficient
More layers are rarely needed and can obscure detail if overdone.
Final Thoughts
Sealing resin miniatures after painting is one of the best ways to protect your work. With the right varnish, thin coats, and proper curing time, your painted models will stay clean, durable, and tabletop-ready.
A few extra minutes spent sealing can preserve hours of painting effort.