cresting problem need help

[compound_convert]

i crested my arrows with the testors model paint, but when i add the poly coating over it the silver is running. i thin if i were to spray them first with poly , them dip them,i might be able to get away with it. anyone else had this problem?

[Mike Vines]

Nope, never.  I use testers as well, and then waterbased poly over it.

[snag]

Sounds like the poly is too "hot" for the testors. Maybe someone who does use it can offer you some alternatives. I know that if you use a water-based paint, like acrylic, then the poly would be fine to use.

[Izzy]

Go over your crest with water based poly first, this protects it from running. Then go over the whole shaft with oil based. This works for me every time.

[Dave Worden]

Obviously you have a paint compatibility problem.  It surprises me that only the silver is running.  Any water based paint should work over Testor's oil-based enamel.  I don't know if Testor's makes a water-based paint now, but if they do that may be the problem.  The only certain answer is to test the Testor's with various clears and find one that works.  (It'll probably be water based.)  Just an added note....if you're using wooden arrows I see the need for a final clear coat.  If you're using aluminum or graphite, why bother?  I use aluminum and have never put clear over my cresting.  The feathers usually wear out in under two years and then I just strip them down and redo them in a new color combination.  Never felt the need to clear coat over my cresting.

[Huntschool]

This is a common problem with the silver and gold metal testors.  I LIGHTLY spray waterbased poly over any cresting that has gold or silver in it..(That means all of them) This may actually take three coats, I said lightly...

Then you can put whatever ya want over the top....

[M60gunner]

Yes, Huntschool is correct. I had the same problem, really raised my hackles. Went to Fletch-lac products and left those issues in my old boot socks. I also spent more time and effort and money trying to get the "common" stuff to work.
I did have to relearn what to use when I tried to dip carbons. I used RC car paints in rattle cans but that costs more than Fletch-Lac products. I now use custom wraps from One-Stringer.

[compound_convert]

the cresting is on wood arrows, and thank you all. will be getting some water base poly.