Shading Medium vs Satin Varnish

How close are they?

ΔE 7.7, close: similar, with a visible difference side by side. Satin Varnish is a little darker than Shading Medium.

Can I use Satin Varnish instead of Shading Medium?

Usually, if you are not matching paint already on the model. Close match (ΔE 8). Satin Varnish is a little darker than Shading Medium.

Can I use Shading Medium instead of Satin Varnish?

The same difference applies the other way round: Shading Medium is a little lighter.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.