August 1998

Using Metalizers

Metalizers are used to make realistic, bare metal finishes on models.  There are several brands of metalizers.  Model Master, Liqu-A-Plate, METALIZER and SnJ to name a few.  I use Model Master metalizers, mostly because its the only type that is available for me to purchase locally. 

Preparation is important.  You need the entire model clean, smooth and preferably polished before you apply metalizer.  Metalizer loses it's smooth metal look when painted over unsmooth surfaces like rough plastic, flat paint or primer.  Also, if you can, seal any putty spots with super glue, or something similar.  Metalizer, and most paint for that matter can get a little absorbed into putty, making a little bit discolored metal.  I think, (though don't take my word for it) that a second cote would fix this. 

Metalizer rubs and peels off rather easily, so masking and handling can be tricky.  Always keep clean hands (as always) and don't stick masking tape over metalizer.  When your ready, you can paint the whole model, or just the areas you need too.  Do this, then let it dry.  Then, just before it is totally done drying; take a fluffy rag, some cotton or terrycloth and buff the metalizer.  (Buffing = rubbing, for the model impaired) Buffing with different amounts of time and with different pressure can result in slightly different metal colors.   Basically, the long you rub, the more luster you get out of the metalizer.    You should  start your buffing lightly, then you can make it faster and harder.

If you look at pro models or real aircraft, you'll notice that some of the metal panels are of a slightly different hue.  Is this a different metalizer??  It can be, but this effect can be achieved without buying different shades of aluminum, steel, titanium, etc.  Since masking with tape can peel metalizer, a stencil can be used.  You can hold the stencil in the specified area, spray the paint, then remove it.  The different hue and luster comes by a variation in buffing.  Buffing shorter or longer on the specific area will produce the right effect.  What that effect is, is up to you.  You don't necessarily need to keep the stencil in place when you buff either.  That's up to you though, experiment with it.