Mixing Model Paints To The Right Color

December 12, 2012

Mixing paint colors can be a bewildering task for most model railroaders. That’s why hobby stores carry usually carry such a big range of colors (to save the problem of mixing). However, with experience you can get really proficient at mixing your own colors (without wasting lots of paint in the process). The key to color mixing is to begin with the lightest colors and gradually add a drop or two of the darker color(s) until you have the shade you want. Don’t do this the other way around, otherwise you will waste a lot of paint trying to get the color you want. Mix the colors frequently, and then let the paint dry on a piece of white card so you can judge the color accurately.

If you are using an airbrush you can gradually build up the colors. More details for you in the members area of the online Model Train Club.

Acrylic paints work great in an airbrush, but they can also do a lot of damage. Leaving even tiny amounts of acrylic model paint residue in an airbrush can clog it up temporarily or for ever. If the paint dries inside the airbrush it can be impervious to water. Since the cleaning solvent with acrylic paints is usually water, you may need to add a little ammonia or denatured alcohol to try and shift the dried up paint that is blocking the airbrush. The lesson in all this is simple; it is easier to thoroughly clean an airbrush immediately after use, than to try and remove dried up paint afterwards.

You might want to buy a color wheel from your local art store. As a general rule, you should try to combine the fewest number of colors to achieve the color you want for the model. This will help keep the colors from becoming muddy.