Gloss vs. Velvet: Which Dome Finish Should You Use?

Why this differs from resin (studio terms)

Resin can work as a top layer, but it behaves like a different medium with different constraints:

• Process control: resin adds mix ratio, pot life, and cure conditions. Domes stay in a studio coating workflow—no mixing ratios and no pot-life timing.

• Build behavior: resin builds thickness fast and can pool or telegraph edges if conditions aren’t controlled. Domes are designed to level in lighter builds.

• Repair reality: resin repairs often mean sanding + re-coating, then matching sheen across layers. In Seal → Finish, the surface is set first, then the final read is applied more predictably.

Gloss Dome vs Velvet Dome

These aren’t “shinier vs duller.” They’re two distinct surface reads.

Gloss Dome

• clarity + contrast

• bright reflection + depth

• line work and transfers read higher-definition

Velvet Dome

• low glare, softer light behavior

• ceramic-forward surface read

• texture, form, and tonal color stay dominant

What you’ll notice

• Detail: Gloss favors graphic/contrast work; Velvet favors texture + tonal work.

• Handling: Gloss shows fingerprints and micro-scratches more under direct light; Velvet keeps reflection from dominating.

• Photography: Gloss needs more light control; Velvet is usually easier under studio lights.

• Overall character: Gloss reads polished/clear; Velvet reads controlled/ceramic-inspired.

Choose Gloss Dome when you want clarity + depth

Choose Gloss if you want:

• maximum clarity and contrast

• a reflective, polished surface read

• depth that makes artwork feel more dimensional

• transfers and line work to stay sharp under light

Choose Velvet Dome when you want low glare + material-first read

Choose Velvet if you want:

• low glare and softer light behavior

• a ceramic-forward surface read

• texture and form to read first

• tonal palettes without reflection taking over

Two process notes for consistent results

1. Seal first if you’re using Color or transfers—Seal reduces absorbency variation so the Dome levels and bonds more consistently.

2. Build light, not heavy—two lighter coats beat one heavy build, especially on edges and curves