Military Modelling Paint from Vallejo

Every experienced hobbyist knows that paint can be the difference between an airplane model and a truly realistic, detailed replica of an authentic warplane. The same can be said of any craft involving paints – from cars to interior design, the right paint can be the difference between something that’s good, and something that’s truly stellar and eye-catching.

For those seeking to bring unprecedented levels of realism and detail to their WW2 airplane models, World War I tank models or modern military armor replicas, Vallejo offers a unique painting kit designed for the military modelling enthusiast. The Model Military Colors Paint Set from Vallejo offers 72 unique colors inspired by military camouflage.

The faded green and olive, sandy tans and beige, and other popular military paint colors have been accurately reproduced by Vallejo to give you the color needed to create realistic military color schemes. 17 mL of each color is provided, along with two mediums of model color and three brushes. Each color is produced to Vallejo’s high quality standards and can be applied via brush or airbrush.



Vallejo offers not only the military colors model paint set, but other model paint from Vallejo, including rust and steel effects, chipping effects and era-specific paint sets. Check out our model paint section today to find the paints you need to take your modelling project to the next level! 

Choosing the Right Scale for Your Next Model

“Bigger is better!” is the common motto of many individuals seeking the best products – but is that always true? Sometimes bigger is actually better – when it comes to trucks, tanks and more. But sometimes, bigger isn’t always better. Those aiming to build something on a grand scale may forget to pay attention to details, resulting in a large, yet sloppy project. There’s beauty, detail and power in small packages as well – for example, today’s mobile phones which are only mere inches; outperform massive computers of years past. Today’s aircraft models used by the US military are thinner, lighter, more nimble, and able to deliver more damage despite their smaller size.

When choosing your next modelling project, you might be tempted to “go big” – but there are several considerations you should take into account when determining the scale of your next modelling project.

• Details – The level of detail for your tank, car, or airplane model isn’t necessarily determined by the scope. With modern modelling kits and manufacturing technology, combined with advanced modelling tools; it’s possible to reach realistic levels of detail on even the smallest scales. Likewise, larger models don’t always have the highest levels of detail. Realistic detail is possible with models of all scales.

• Difficulty – Large scale models generally have more components, compared to small scale models. However, larger scale models tend to use larger pieces, making it easier to assemble, especially for those lacking dexterity. Again – there’s a wide range of difficulty levels in both small and large scale models.

• Resources – Large model kits are going to require more supplies to construct – more model paint, more glue, and more decals. If you’re purchasing a large scale model kit, it’s a wise decision to order additional supplies at the same time to ensure you have the resources necessary for completion.

• Display – Finally, think about where you want your model to be displayed. Large scale models are certainly majestic, but the size limits display options, and you may have to buy a large-scale display case. Smaller models can easily fit on your desk, bookshelf and more; allowing you to show off your models to all.

At Squadron, we offer a vast range of model tanks, airplanes and cars ranging from 1:144 up to 1:32 scale, with options for both beginning modelers and advanced modelers. Shop our online store to find your next model kit today!

Model Painting Basics – Matte vs Glossy

One of the most important and difficult aspects of model building is selecting the best type of paint. After hours of assembling, trimming, and sanding you are finally ready to apply the finishing touches that make it shine. But should it?

The type of paint that you should select depends largely on the model that you have built. Certain types – cars, jetliners, and motorcycles – wear that glossy coat well.  Other types such as model aircraft, tanks, and trucks typically utilize matte paint for historical accuracy. It is important to do your research and make sure that the paint that you ultimately select matches the vehicle and your taste.

There are different types of model paint such as acrylics, enamels, and lacquers that possess matte, semi-gloss, and glossy characteristics. If you are feeling experimental, you can mix matte and glossy paint to create a satin finish that can be best described as semi-gloss. The semi-gloss is most often used to show how a glossy finish can weather and look well-worn.

Matte:

•    Typically dry and cure quickly and is easier to apply than gloss/semi-gloss.
•    Characteristically ‘flat’ or ‘dull’ and does not accept decals due to the rough texture.

Semi-Gloss:

•    Dries or cures more slowly than matte.
•    Falls between shiny and flat with the added benefit of being able to use decals on the paint.

Gloss:

•    Slowest drying or curing type of paint.
•    Characteristically ‘shiny’ or ‘bright’ and easily hold decals directly on the paint.

Various clear coat model paint finishes can add a glossy mirror-like finish on your paint and allows for more versatility with decals and other finishing details.

Painting is an art that takes patience, practice, and passion to perfect. This is especially true for models. Each type of paint, color of base, clear coat, and technique used changes the overall appearance and feel of the model. When you get comfortable with the basics, start experimenting and see what you can do!

Using Airbrushes for Modelling

For model airplanes that require painting, or for hobbyists who want to paint over an existing finish, there are a couple of options. Most kits will have small glass jars of paint included, that require the use of a brush to apply. However, a much more smooth application can be achieved if the paint is airbrushed onto the surface of the model. The major benefit of using airbrushing technique is its even overall coating and uniform finish. Model paints tend to leave spots of uneven paint distribution whereas airbrushing gives a much neater professional coverage.

Airbrush Basics

An airbrushing tool is a hand-held cylinder, much like a brush without bristles, and with a small jar attached to it for filling with paint. The "brush" is supplied with air from a compressor, or from compressed carbon dioxide can. The air (or CO2) forces the paint out from the attached jar and through the cylinder. Gentle movements of the hand, combined with finger adjustments to the pressure control wheel, will allow the user to disperse paint evenly and with a finer degree of control than a regular brush might permit.

Airbrushing can allow for a very large surface to be covered in a fraction of the time than traditional paintbrush methods. Along with airbrushing being much faster, it blends colors together seamlessly, so that colors seem to flow into one another without any obvious brush strokes.

Airbrushes and airbrush kits come in both advanced and beginner varieties. For example, the

Types of Paint

Standard Airbrush by Testors is an excellent starter kit. You can also have a look at the NEO Gravity-Feed Dual-Action Airbrush by Iwata, which has a double action trigger. Or, pick up a gift set with the Testors - Amazing Airbrush Gift Set. Airbrushing hobby tools are often very affordable and do not take much time to get started.

There are essentially three types of paint that are used for applying to model aircraft: lacquers, enamels and acrylics. Acrylics are water-soluble and great for indoor use, because there are no harmful fumes associated with its use. Enamels and lacquers are also good and can provide a glossier sheen to the completed work. Be aware that all paints must be used in ventilated areas because their fumes can be dangerous to inhale.

Single vs Double Airbrush


In addition to the paint selections, there are also single and double action airbrushes. Single action, as implied, operates from the single act of triggering the release of the spray. They are simpler and less expensive, and excellent for beginners who are still mastering the airbrushing application technique. However, for different thicknesses of lines, the nozzle must be changed out, or the spray volume can be altered.

Double action allows the artist to mix the paint and air ratios while painting. It operates much like a single action airbrush, but, the air and paint amounts that are dispersed can be controlled while the trigger is pulled back, which allows for more command over the outcome. Double action airbrushes are often used by advanced artists to create more sophisticated effects. While the basics of airbrushing can be learned very quickly, mastery can take years.

Let us know any additional questions you may have in the comments below about painting models, we love to help!