Question about metallic spray paint

[tamiya4x4dryver]

Does the metallic paint in the spray can (pactra or tamiya) make a pretty decent looking finish? I mean, do they actually end up looking like real metal flake paint? Do you have to back with silver?

[Piggy89373]

Most of the metallic paint finishes look pretty darn good. Some look better than others, but I think that's more pigment oriented. The metallic greens look great, and the reds aren't too bad either. For backing, either back in white or silver and you'll be good to go.

[tamiya4x4dryver]

Thanks, funny you said that because Tamiya Metallic green is what I'm looking to get (for my new rover mini cooper kit). What difference would I see between backing it with white instead of the silver?

[Piggy89373]

Here's what I suggest you do for future reference. Pick up some transparency sheets at your local stationary store. Spray different colors on them, and back them with other colors. Write on the front what the primary and backing colors are and keep them for record. This way, next time you do a body, you'll be able to select your color and effects from these transparency sheets.

The only difference I've seen between backing with white and silver is white tends to brighten the paint, but only very slightly. With most colors, you'll hardly notice a difference, if at all. Flourescents are totally different, in case you had those in mind.

The green on the hood is from two of pactra's metallic greens. These were backed with white.
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-1/942577/EmeraldNTC3-3.jpg

[tamiya4x4dryver]

That's a great idea! Thanks for the tip! Nice looking body by the way....

one more question.... I think I'll do Tamiya Metallic green in a spray can and back it with Tamiya Silver in a spray can.... now... If I buy Tamiya "smoke" in a spray can, for the windows... am I going to run into any problems? I've read on here that when using pactra window tint you must use the flo. overcoat and let it dry for atleast a day to avaoid problems. I'd like to stick with the Tamiya cans this time, but Tamiya doesn't sell an "overcoat" like pactra... what should I do????

[tamiya4x4dryver]

anyone know? I'd like to order something tonight if I can....