[Rhaalidor]

I use different varnishes for different parts of the model. Sometimes, an overall flat varnish doesn't stand out much. Some items like Eldar Waystones need a gloss varnish to stand out from the rest of the model. I very often use a gloss coat to prepare an area for decaling. Most waterslide decals will silver (leave a whitish area under the decal and surrounding carrier) if you use a decal over a satin (matte) or flat area. The decals usualy won't silver when applied over a glossy area. Then, if you need the decaled area to be flat, just brush the Dull-Cote over the area.

If you use Testor's Gloss-cote or Dull-cote (or anything in a spray can), the you WILL have trouble stripping the model later. These are Lacquer based or Acrylic Enamel products, and won't turn loose with anything weaker than Lacquer Thinner. If you want gloss, use Johnson's Future Floor Wax. If you want flat, then thin the Future with Denatured Alcohol to kill the shine. Future Floor Wax is a water-based acrylic solution somewhat akin to GW paint. Simple Green or Super Clean will remove it with a little soaking and some scrubbing.