Purpose-built for natural metal finish

Vallejo Metal Color is a dedicated range of high-density metallic acrylics formulated specifically for airbrushing over a black primer base. Unlike regular metallic paints, the ultra-fine metallic particle size is optimised for the fine atomisation of an airbrush, producing a smooth, even metallic sheen that closely mimics the look of real bare metal. The range covers the full spectrum of NMF work — from the bright polish of Chrome and White Aluminium through to the weathered tones of Dark Aluminium, Dull Aluminium, and the heat-effect colours used to simulate exhaust and engine surfaces.

Metal Color is applied directly over a black gloss or satin primer base for maximum reflectivity. Thinning is generally not required — the formulation is ready for direct airbrush use, though a few drops of Airbrush Flow Improver can help with atomisation on very fine needles. Different tones can be layered and blended wet-on-wet to create subtle panel variation on natural metal finish aircraft.

All bottles are 32 ml. The Alclad II column shows the closest equivalent from the industry-standard lacquer metallic range, useful if you are converting a recipe or working across both systems.

Getting the most from Metal Color

Metal Color gives best results airbrushed over a gloss or satin black base coat — the darker the substrate, the higher the contrast and apparent reflectivity of the metallic layer. Apply thin, light coats at low PSI (10–15 PSI / 0.7–1.0 bar) to build up coverage gradually. Heavy single coats reduce the metallic effect and can obscure fine surface detail.

For NMF aircraft work, the technique is to establish a base coat of Aluminium or Duraluminium, then add panel variation by airbrushing the adjacent tones (White Aluminium for highlights, Dark Aluminium for recesses and panel lines) wet-on-wet or after a brief flash dry. This approach recreates the natural tonal variation of bare aluminium skins in service.

Metal Color can be thinned with Vallejo Airbrush Flow Improver to improve atomisation. Do not use standard Airbrush Thinner as it can affect the metallic particle suspension.

Jump to colour family:

Pair with Vallejo primers and auxiliaries

Metal Color works best over a dedicated black primer base. Vallejo’s Metal Color Black Primer (VLJ77660) is formulated specifically for this range, ensuring maximum compatibility and adhesion before applying your metallic coats. Browse the full Vallejo range at Wheels & Wings including primers, thinners, and the complete Metal Color line.