You can thin Revell Aqua paint primarily using water, or for the best results, with Revell Aqua Color Mix.
How to Thin Revell Aqua Paint?
Thinning Revell Aqua paint is crucial for achieving smooth, even coats, whether you're brushing or airbrushing. Proper thinning ensures better flow, minimizes brush strokes, and prevents clogging in airbrushes.
Why Thin Your Paint?
Thinning paint reduces its viscosity, allowing it to flow more freely and settle more smoothly on the model's surface. This leads to:
- Smoother Finishes: Eliminates brush marks and creates a level surface.
- Better Coverage: Allows for multiple thin coats, building up color without obscuring details.
- Airbrush Compatibility: Essential for preventing clogs and achieving a fine mist.
- Enhanced Detail: Thinner paint settles less thickly, preserving intricate model details.
Recommended Thinners for Revell Aqua Paint
Revell Aqua paints are water-based acrylics, which offers flexibility in thinning agents.
- Water (Distilled is Best):
- For basic thinning, especially for brushing, clean water can be used.
- Important: As per Revell's guidelines, you should dilute a maximum of 20 to 25% with water. Using distilled water is recommended over tap water to avoid minerals or impurities that could affect paint performance or clog airbrushes.
- Revell Aqua Color Mix:
- For optimal results, it is best to dilute the paint with Aqua Color Mix. This dedicated thinner is specifically formulated by Revell for their Aqua Color range.
- Aqua Color Mix not only thins the paint but also improves flow, delays drying time slightly on the brush (reducing tip dry), and enhances pigment dispersion for a more consistent finish. It is highly recommended for airbrushing.
Thinning Ratios: Water vs. Aqua Color Mix
The ideal thinning ratio can vary based on the paint's original consistency, desired application method, and environmental factors like temperature and humidity. Always start with less thinner and add incrementally.
| Thinner Type | Application Method | Recommended Ratio (Paint : Thinner) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water | Brushing | 4:1 to 3:1 (20-25% thinner) | Good for basic hand-brushing. |
| Airbrushing | Not recommended for consistent use | Can be inconsistent; primarily use Aqua Color Mix for airbrushing. | |
| Aqua Color Mix | Brushing | 4:1 to 2:1 (20-50% thinner) | Improves flow and finish. Adjust as needed. |
| Airbrushing | 2:1 to 1:1 (33-50% thinner) | Ideal for fine atomization and smooth airbrushing. |
Always perform a test on a scrap piece of plastic or a hidden area before applying to your model.
Step-by-Step Thinning Process
Thinning paint is a simple process that requires patience and a good eye for consistency.
- Gather Your Tools:
- Revell Aqua paint
- Chosen thinner (Water or Revell Aqua Color Mix)
- Mixing palette or small cup (e.g., plastic shot glass, ceramic tile)
- Pipette or dropper for precise measurements
- Stirring stick or brush handle
- Test surface (scrap plastic or cardboard)
- Dispense Paint: Pour a small amount of Revell Aqua paint onto your mixing surface. Start with a manageable amount that you can use quickly.
- Add Thinner Gradually: Using a pipette or dropper, add a very small amount of your chosen thinner to the paint. Begin with a drop or two.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use your stirring stick or brush handle to mix the paint and thinner thoroughly. Stir slowly to avoid introducing air bubbles.
- Check Consistency:
- For Brushing: The paint should flow smoothly off the stirring stick without breaking, resembling the consistency of milk or melted ice cream. It should easily spread without dragging or leaving thick edges.
- For Airbrushing: The consistency should be thinner, like skim milk. When you test it with your stirring stick, it should run off quickly in a steady stream, leaving no residue on the stick.
- Test Application: Dip your brush or load your airbrush and test the thinned paint on a scrap surface. Observe its flow, coverage, and drying.
- Adjust as Needed:
- If the paint is too thick, add another small drop of thinner, mix, and re-test.
- If it's too thin (looks watery, lacks opacity, or runs excessively), add a tiny bit more unthinned paint and mix.
Tips for Successful Thinning
- Start Small: It's easier to add more thinner than to fix overly thinned paint.
- Mix Well: Ensure the thinner is fully incorporated into the paint for consistent results.
- Multiple Thin Coats: Achieve better results by applying several thin coats rather than one thick coat. This builds up color depth and allows details to show through.
- Cleanliness: Always use clean tools and mixing containers to prevent contamination.
- Humidity and Temperature: On hot or dry days, paint might dry faster, requiring slightly more thinning. On humid days, it might need less.
- Storage: Do not thin entire pots of paint for long-term storage, as this can affect their shelf life. Only thin the amount you plan to use immediately.
By following these guidelines, you can master the art of thinning Revell Aqua paints for superior modeling results.
