Tried Ben’s Woodland Scenics Water Effects – seems like some kind of treated PVA – certainly dries clear but far too expensive for water effects of any size. I need to find a source of some kind of encapsulating hobby resin that pours well and can be coloured. Considered the potting mix they use at work. Seems like a goer, slow setting low temp would be the way to go. Might have to order some. Also found an old tin of clear polyurethane coating in the garage. Might try that as well, although not sure how it will handle multiple layers or any kind of thickness?