How to Use Pledge Floor Polish as a Clear Coat for Model Kits

If you're a model kit builder, you've probably heard of using Pledge floor polish (formerly known as Future) as a clear coat. It's a budget-friendly alternative to expensive hobby clear coats, and it delivers a glossy, durable finish that protects your paintwork and decals. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using Pledge floor polish on your model kits, from preparation to application and troubleshooting.

Whether you're building a high-grade gunpla like the BANDAI Hobby HG 1/144 GUNDAM VIRSAGO or a detailed resin kit, a good clear coat can make all the difference. Pledge is especially popular among gunpla builders because it's self-leveling, dries quickly, and can be applied straight from the bottle or airbrushed. Let's dive into the process.

Why Use Pledge Floor Polish as a Clear Coat?

Pledge floor polish is a water-based acrylic that was originally designed for floors, but modelers discovered its incredible properties for scale modeling. It acts as a high-gloss clear coat that is both tough and flexible, making it ideal for protecting painted surfaces and decals. Unlike some hobby clear coats, Pledge is self-leveling, meaning it smooths out brush strokes and imperfections as it dries.

Another major advantage is cost. A bottle of Pledge costs a fraction of what you'd pay for a dedicated hobby clear coat, and it lasts for many builds. Plus, it's safe on most plastics and paints, including lacquer, enamel, and acrylics, as long as they are fully cured. For gunpla builders, it's a fantastic way to achieve that 'anime-style' glossy finish without breaking the bank.

• Self-leveling formula reduces brush marks and unevenness.
• Dries quickly, allowing multiple coats in one session.
• Can be used as a base for panel lining and decals, or as a final protective coat.
• Non-yellowing and water-resistant once cured.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Before you begin, gather your supplies: a bottle of Pledge floor polish (or Future, if you have older stock), a clean container, a brush or airbrush, and a well-ventilated area. If you're using an airbrush, you'll want to thin the Pledge with a little water or acrylic thinner (about 10-20%) to ensure smooth flow. For brush application, you can use it straight from the bottle, but a soft, wide brush works best to avoid streaks.

Also, make sure your model kit is clean and free of dust. If you've already applied paint and decals, let everything dry thoroughly. For best results, work in a dust-free environment to avoid particles sticking to the wet coat. If you're working on a kit like the BANDAI Hobby SDW HEROES KNIGHT STRIKE GUNDAM, you'll appreciate how Pledge enhances the plastic's natural shine.

• Use a clean, lint-free brush or an airbrush for even application.
• Thin with water if airbrushing – about 1 part water to 4 parts Pledge.
• Work in a dust-free room to avoid imperfections.
• Test on a spare runner first to ensure compatibility.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Start by shaking the Pledge bottle gently, but avoid creating bubbles. Pour a small amount into a clean container. If you're airbrushing, thin it as mentioned and load your cup. For brush application, dip your brush and apply a thin, even coat over the entire surface. Work quickly but carefully, as Pledge dries fast.

Let the first coat dry for at least 30 minutes to an hour. It should be dry to the touch but not fully cured. Apply a second coat for extra durability, especially if you plan to handle the kit frequently. Once you're satisfied, let the kit cure for 24 hours before handling or applying further finishes like flat coats.

• Apply thin coats to prevent pooling and runs.
• If you notice bubbles, use a toothpick to pop them before drying.
• For a super glossy finish, apply up to three coats.

Tips for Using Pledge on Gunpla and Other Kits

Pledge is particularly popular for gunpla because it can be used as a gloss coat before panel lining and decals, and then again as a final sealant. For example, if you're building the BANDAI HOBBY MG 1/100 MUSHA GUNDAM MK-II, a gloss coat will make the panel lines pop and protect the metallic stickers.

One common mistake is applying Pledge over paint that hasn't fully cured. Always wait at least 24 hours after painting. Also, avoid applying Pledge in high humidity, as it can cause a cloudy finish. If you're using water slide decals, like the Evolution Studios MGSD Aerial Water Slide Decals, Pledge will seal them perfectly and prevent silvering.

• Always test on a spare part first.
• Use Pledge as a decal setting solution – it softens decals and helps them conform.
• For a matte finish, apply a flat clear coat over the dried Pledge.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice streaks or brush marks, it's usually because the coat was too thick or applied unevenly. Try thinning the Pledge more and applying thinner coats. If you get a cloudy or milky finish, it's likely due to humidity or applying over a semi-cured paint. Let the kit dry completely and apply another thin coat – it often clears up.

If you accidentally get Pledge on a part you don't want coated, you can remove it with a little isopropyl alcohol before it cures. Once cured, it's more difficult to remove, so be careful. For tricky areas, a cotton swab dipped in alcohol works well.

• Cloudy finish? Increase ventilation and reduce humidity.
• Bubbles? Pop them with a pin or toothpick immediately.
• Streaks? Sand lightly with fine grit and reapply.

Alternatives and When to Use Them

While Pledge is fantastic, there are times you might prefer a dedicated hobby clear coat. For instance, if you need a super durable finish for a kit you'll handle a lot, or if you want a matte or semi-gloss finish, you'll need to use a flat or satin clear coat. Pledge is strictly glossy, so for matte finishes, you'll apply Pledge first and then a matte topcoat.

If you're looking for other products to enhance your builds, consider the Model Kit Runner Markers Set for easy part identification, or the 107 Upgrade Parts - RG RX-78-2 2.0 Core Fighter Chest for adding detail. These accessories can take your kit to the next level, and Pledge will protect them just as well.

• For matte finishes, apply Pledge then a matte clear coat.
• For maximum durability, consider a two-part automotive clear, but test first.
• For quick touch-ups, Pledge can be applied with a cotton swab.

Pledge floor polish is a versatile, affordable clear coat that every model kit builder should have in their arsenal. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, using Pledge will give your kits a beautiful, durable gloss finish that protects your hard work. So grab a bottle and give it a try on your next build – you'll be amazed at the results. If you're ready to start a new project, check out the BANDAI Hobby HG 1/144 GUNDAM VIRSAGO and see how Pledge enhances its details.