Applying Revell paint, particularly the acrylic (Aqua Color) type mentioned in the reference, involves preparing the surface, applying thin coats, and cleaning your tools properly.
To apply Revell paint effectively, prepare your surface, apply paint in thin layers, allow drying time between coats, and clean your brushes with water.
Getting Started with Revell Acrylics
Revell offers different types of paints, but the provided reference highlights cleanup with water, characteristic of their Aqua Color acrylic range. Applying these paints correctly ensures a smooth, durable finish on your models or projects.
Preparation is Key
Before applying any paint, proper preparation of the surface is crucial for the best results.
- Clean the Surface: Ensure the surface is free from dust, grease, and fingerprints. Washing with mild soap and water is often sufficient for plastic models.
- Primer (Optional but Recommended): Applying a thin coat of primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform base color, especially when painting lighter colors over dark surfaces or varying material types.
Applying the Paint
Applying the paint in thin, even layers is more effective than a single thick coat.
- Stir the Paint: Always stir your Revell paint thoroughly before use. This ensures pigments are evenly distributed.
- Thinning (If Needed): Revell Aqua Color can be thinned with water or Revell Aqua Color Mix. Thinning helps the paint flow smoothly, prevents brush strokes, and is essential for airbrushing. Start with a small amount of thinner and add more until you achieve the desired consistency – typically like milk.
- Apply Thin Coats: As the reference suggests, apply a couple coats. Multiple thin coats build up color opacity gradually and provide a smoother finish than one thick coat, which can obscure details and take longer to dry.
- Drying Time: Allow each coat to dry sufficiently before applying the next. Revell Aqua Color dries relatively quickly to the touch, but waiting longer between coats (check the specific paint instructions, but often 30-60 minutes) ensures the underlying layer is fully cured and won't lift.
- Brush Stroke Direction: For brush painting, try to paint in a consistent direction where possible, following the shape of the object to minimize visible brush marks.
Cleaning Up
One of the advantages of Revell Aqua Color acrylics, as noted in the reference, is the easy cleanup.
- Water Cleanup: Immediately after use, clean your brushes by dipping them in water. Swirl the brush gently in the water to remove paint, then rinse under running water. Repeat until no paint residue is left.
- Brush Cleaner (Optional): For more stubborn paint or for a deeper clean, use a dedicated acrylic brush cleaner.
Summary of Key Steps
| Step | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare | Clean surface, apply primer (optional). | Ensures good adhesion. |
| Apply | Stir paint, thin if needed, apply thin coats. | Avoids thick layers, builds opacity. |
| Dry | Allow drying time between coats. | Prevents lifting, improves finish. |
| Clean | Use water to clean brushes immediately. | Simple and effective for acrylics. |
By following these steps, you can achieve a great finish with Revell Aqua Color paints, taking advantage of their ease of application and water cleanup.
