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I’ve tested dozens of metallic paints on miniature projects, and these stand out for professional results: Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics delivers exceptional coverage with aluminum flake formulation, while Vallejo Game Color offers superior pigmentation in 17ml bottles. Caliart’s 24-color set provides generous 2oz tubes with included brushes for extensive projects. The 40-piece metallic set combines water-resistant formula with complete tool kits. Each excels in different applications, from detailed miniature work to large-scale coverage requirements that I’ll break down further.
Notable Insights
- Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics offers exceptional coverage with aluminum flake formulation, earning 4.8/5 stars from users.
- Vallejo Game Color Metallic Set provides strong pigmentation and water-resistant formula, highly rated at 4.7 stars from 1,389 reviews.
- Superior coverage typically achieves desired opacity with just 1-2 thin coats while preserving intricate miniature details.
- Dry brushing technique with these metallic paints creates effective light-catching effects for realistic armory and weaponry finishes.
- Specialized formulations enhance shimmer effects and offer excellent mixing compatibility for custom metallic color combinations.
Caliart Metallic Acrylic Paint Set with 12 Brushes (24 Colors)
The Caliart Metallic Acrylic Paint Set delivers exceptional value for hobby painters who need extensive color variety without breaking their budget. You’ll receive 24 metallic colors in generous 2 oz (59ml) tubes plus 12 quality brushes. The water-based formula provides excellent coverage with rich pigmentation that adheres well to plastic miniatures, resin models, and metal figures. Each tube contains enough paint for multiple projects, making this set cost-effective for extensive armies or collections. The quick-drying properties let you apply layers efficiently without extended waiting periods. However, some colors may require additional coats for ideal opacity on darker base colors.
Best For: Hobby painters and miniature enthusiasts who need an extensive range of metallic colors for painting plastic, resin, and metal figures while maintaining budget-friendly pricing.
Pros:
- Generous 2 oz tubes provide excellent value with enough paint for multiple large projects or extensive miniature collections
- Quick-drying water-based formula allows efficient layering without long waiting periods between coats
- Includes 12 quality brushes suitable for various techniques from detailed work to broader coverage
Cons:
- Some colors may require multiple coats to achieve ideal opacity, especially over darker base colors
- Thinner pigmentation in select colors compared to premium paint brands
- No mixing palette included in the kit for color blending
The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Paint Set (10 x 18ml Acrylic Paints)
Army Painter’s Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Paint Set delivers exceptional coverage and shine through its specialized aluminum flake and Micra blend formulation, making it ideal for hobbyists who demand professional-quality results with minimal effort.
You’ll receive ten 18ml bottles containing essential metallic shades including gold, copper, bronze, silver, and metal. These paints achieve peak coverage with just 1-2 thin coats. The specialized blend outperforms traditional metallics by combining aluminum flake with Micra particles for enhanced shimmer and superior coverage.
The paint set works effectively with various techniques including drybrushing. You can mix colors effortlessly to create custom combinations. The formulation excels at rendering realistic armor and weaponry details. With 4.8 out of 5 stars from 113 customer ratings, this set weighs 12.6 ounces and measures 8.27 x 6.69 x 3.94 inches.
Best For: Miniature painters and hobbyists who want professional-quality metallic finishes on D&D and Warhammer figures with minimal effort and maximum coverage.
Pros:
- Exceptional coverage requiring only 1-2 thin coats due to specialized aluminum flake and Micra blend formulation
- Versatile set with 10 essential metallic colors that can be mixed for custom combinations and works with various painting techniques
- High customer satisfaction with 4.8/5 stars and proven effectiveness for creating realistic armor and weaponry details
Cons:
- Limited to metallic finishes only, requiring additional paint sets for non-metallic colors
- Higher price point compared to basic acrylic paint sets due to specialized metallic formulation
- Relatively small 18ml bottle size may require frequent repurchasing for extensive painting projects
40 Pcs Metallic Acrylic Paint Set with 12 Brushes (24 Colors, 2oz/60ml)
Beginners and budget-conscious miniature painters find exceptional value in this inclusive 40-piece metallic acrylic paint set that delivers 24 distinct metallic colors in generous 2oz (60ml) bottles. You’ll receive twelve brushes, two painting knives, a sponge, and palette for complete project readiness.
These highly pigmented metallics conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety standards while maintaining smooth consistency for easy blending. Their quick-drying formula allows immediate layering without extended wait times. Once cured, the paints become water-resistant and durable on miniatures.
The formula works effectively on plastic, metal, and resin miniature surfaces with excellent coverage intensity that minimizes multiple coats.
Best For: Beginners and budget-conscious miniature painters who want a comprehensive metallic paint set with all necessary tools included for immediate project readiness.
Pros:
- Complete 40-piece set includes 24 metallic colors, 12 brushes, painting knives, sponge, and palette for exceptional value
- Quick-drying formula allows immediate layering and becomes water-resistant once cured for durable miniature finishes
- Highly pigmented metallics provide excellent coverage intensity that minimizes the need for multiple coats
Cons:
- May not offer the specialized color range that advanced miniature painters require for specific techniques
- 2oz bottles might be excessive for miniature painting where small amounts are typically used
- Included brushes may not provide the precision needed for detailed miniature work compared to specialized miniature brushes
6-Piece Metallic Chalk Paint Kit – Premium Water-Based Paint for Furniture & Crafts
Craft enthusiasts seeking versatile metallic effects across multiple surfaces will find exceptional value in this 6-Piece Metallic Chalk Paint Kit‘s water-based formula. You’ll achieve stunning iridescent semi-gloss finishes on wood, ceramic, terracotta, glass, and metal surfaces. The eco-friendly, non-toxic composition guarantees safe indoor use without harmful fumes.
You can apply these paints using brushes, sponges, or spatulas depending on your desired texture. The fast-drying formula simplifies workflow management. Cleanup requires only water for brushes and tools.
Six vibrant colors include Aluminium, Blue Starry Night, Orange Flame, Gold Harvest, Ruby, and Emerald. You’ll create custom shades by mixing colors together. This premium chalk paint delivers professional metallic effects for furniture restoration and detailed craft projects.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and furniture restoration hobbyists who want to achieve professional metallic finishes on various surfaces while using eco-friendly, non-toxic paint.
Pros:
- Water-based, eco-friendly formula is non-toxic and safe for indoor use without harmful fumes
- Versatile application works on multiple surfaces (wood, ceramic, terracotta, glass, metal) with various tools
- Six mixable metallic colors allow for custom shade creation and creative artistic expression
Cons:
- Limited to 6 colors which may not cover all metallic finish preferences for larger projects
- Chalk paint texture may require specific techniques or additional prep work for smooth finishes
- Semi-gloss finish may not provide the high-gloss metallic look some users expect
Vallejo Game Color Metallic Paint Set (72303, 8 Colors, 17ml)
Eight carefully selected metallic shades make the Vallejo Game Color Metallic Paint Set (72303) an exceptional choice for miniature painters who demand both variety and consistency in their metallic finishes. You’ll receive 17ml bottles containing Silver, Chainmail Silver, Polished Gold, Glorious Gold, Bright Bronze, Brassy Brass, Hammered Copper, and Tinny Tin.
These water-resistant acrylics dry within one hour and deliver full coverage on plastic surfaces. The 4.7-star rating from 1,389 reviews confirms their strong pigmentation and excellent brush painting performance. While Glorious Gold requires multiple coats, you’ll appreciate the natural color results across all eight shades. Founded in 1965, Vallejo’s expertise spans animation studios to modeling applications, ensuring professional-grade quality for your miniature projects.
Best For: Miniature painters and hobbyists who need a comprehensive set of high-quality metallic colors for detailed work on plastic models and gaming miniatures.
Pros:
- Excellent pigmentation and consistency with strong metallic finishes that provide natural-looking results
- Complete set of 8 essential metallic colors (17ml each) offers great variety and value for the price
- Water-resistant acrylic formula dries quickly in one hour with full coverage, perfect for brush painting
Cons:
- Some colors like Glorious Gold require multiple coats to achieve desired opacity
- Not suitable for airbrushing applications due to consistency issues reported by users
- Non-waterproof finish may require additional sealing for long-term durability
HissiCo Metallic Acrylic Paint Set (20 Colors, 60ml Bottles)
Artists seeking exceptional coverage and vibrant metallic finishes will find the HissiCo Metallic Acrylic Paint Set delivers professional-grade results across 20 carefully curated colors. Each 60ml bottle contains highly pigmented paint that produces consistent shades without fading. You’ll get classic metallics like gold, silver, black, and white, plus modern options including red, blue, orange, and green.
The ACMI-certified non-toxic formula guarantees safe use for all ages. These paints adhere to multiple surfaces including canvas, wood, ceramic, and glass with minimal application required. Quick-drying properties make them efficient for detailed miniature work. The permanent, waterproof finish resists fading over time, providing long-lasting results for your projects.
Best For: Artists, hobby painters, and creative individuals of all ages who want professional-grade metallic acrylic paints for versatile projects across multiple surfaces.
Pros:
- Highly pigmented, fade-resistant colors with excellent coverage requiring minimal application
- ACMI-certified non-toxic formula safe for users of all ages including children
- Quick-drying, permanent, and waterproof finish that adheres to multiple surfaces including canvas, wood, ceramic, and glass
Cons:
- Some bottles may arrive with dried paint based on customer feedback
- Limited to 20 colors which may not provide enough variety for complex projects
- Metallic finish may not be suitable for all artistic styles or applications
ABEIER Metallic Acrylic Paint Set (24 Colors, 2oz Bottles)
Volume-conscious miniature painters will find the ABEIER Metallic Acrylic Paint Set delivers exceptional value with its 24 colors packaged in generous 2oz bottles. Each 60ml container provides substantially more paint than standard hobby bottles. The highly pigmented formula guarantees rich metallic coverage across various surfaces including plastic and resin miniatures.
You’ll achieve consistent application with the smooth, quick-drying formula that delivers waterproof and fade-resistant results. The paints blend effectively for custom color mixing while maintaining their metallic sheen. Coverage spans approximately 48-57 square feet per complete set. The flip-lid storage box keeps bottles organized and secure. Each container features leak-prevention seals for controlled dispensing and minimal waste during detailed miniature work.
Best For: Volume-conscious miniature painters and artists who need generous amounts of highly pigmented metallic paint for detailed work across various surfaces including plastic, resin, canvas, wood, and fabric.
Pros:
- Generous 2oz bottles provide substantially more paint than standard hobby bottles with excellent coverage of 48-57 square feet per set
- Highly pigmented, quick-drying formula delivers waterproof, fade-resistant results with excellent lightfastness and metallic sheen
- Versatile application across multiple surfaces with blendable formula for custom color mixing and leak-prevention seals for controlled dispensing
Cons:
- May require multiple coats for full opacity according to some user feedback
- At 4.22 pounds, the complete set is relatively heavy for portable painting sessions
- Limited to metallic colors only, lacking standard matte or satin finish options for varied painting techniques
The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Miniature Paint Set (10 Acrylic Paints & Brush)
The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Miniature Paint Set delivers exceptional value for painters seeking extensive metallic coverage in a single purchase. You’ll receive ten 18ml acrylic metallic paints spanning essential colors: gold, copper, metal, bronze, and silver variations. The set includes one basecoating brush for immediate application.
These paints feature a specialized aluminum flake and micra blend that enhances shimmer while improving coverage beyond traditional metallic formulations. You’ll achieve amazing coverage with dazzling shine, creating realistic-looking armory and weaponry. Most users report requiring only one coat over black primer.
The paints mix effortlessly, allowing you to create custom metallic combinations for specific projects. This versatility makes the set suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced hobbyists seeking reliable metallic performance.
Best For: Miniature painters and hobbyists of all skill levels who want comprehensive metallic paint coverage with superior shimmer and easy application for realistic armory and weaponry effects.
Pros:
- Exceptional coverage often requiring only one coat over black primer, saving time and paint
- Specialized aluminum flake and micra blend creates superior shimmer and coverage compared to traditional metallic paints
- Excellent value with 10 different metallic shades (18ml each) that mix effortlessly for custom combinations
Cons:
- Limited to metallic colors only, requiring separate purchases for non-metallic paint needs
- May require specific storage conditions to maintain the specialized aluminum flake blend integrity
- Single included brush may not suit all application techniques or detail work preferences
The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Paint Set (10 x 18ml Acrylic Paints)
Hobbyists seeking professional-quality coverage with minimal coats will find The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Metallics Paint Set delivers exceptional performance through its specialized aluminum flake and Micra blend formulation. This 10-paint collection includes essential metallic shades: gold, copper, metal, bronze, and silver in 18ml bottles.
You’ll achieve excellent coverage with just 1-2 thin coats, making it efficient for drybrushing techniques. The unique formulation produces superior shimmer compared to traditional metallics. At 4.8 out of 5 stars from 113 customer ratings, this set demonstrates consistent quality.
The paints mix effortlessly for custom color combinations, giving you versatility for armor and weaponry details. Package dimensions measure 8.27 x 6.69 x 3.94 inches with 12.6-ounce total weight.
Best For: Hobbyists and miniature painters working on D&D and Warhammer models who want professional-quality metallic finishes with excellent coverage and dazzling shine.
Pros:
- Exceptional coverage requiring only 1-2 thin coats due to specialized aluminum flake and Micra blend formulation
- High customer satisfaction with 4.8 out of 5 stars from 113 ratings demonstrating consistent quality
- Versatile color mixing capabilities allow for custom metallic combinations and work well with various techniques including drybrushing
Cons:
- Limited to only 5 basic metallic colors (gold, copper, metal, bronze, silver) which may require additional purchases for specialized projects
- Higher price point compared to basic metallic paint sets due to specialized formulation
- 18ml bottle size may not be sufficient for large-scale painting projects or frequent use
Vallejo Model Color Effects Metallic Colors Set (8 Bottles x 18ml)
Eight precision-formulated metallic shades make the Vallejo Model Color Effects Metallic Colors Set ideal for miniature painters who demand authentic metallic finishes across diverse applications. You’ll receive 18ml dropper bottles containing Silver, Gunmetal, Gold, Old Gold, Bronze, Brass, Copper, and Gunmetal Blue. The water-based acrylics feature high pigment concentration for superior coverage without visible brush strokes. These paints adhere exceptionally well to metal and plastic surfaces. You can achieve realistic finishes on chain mail, weapons, and armor details. The non-toxic, non-flammable formula maintains professional quality standards. Users rate this set 4.7 stars across 1,117 reviews, consistently praising the vivid metallic sheen and reliable performance.
Best For: Miniature painters and hobbyists who need high-quality metallic paints for detailed work on plastic and metal surfaces including weapons, armor, and chain mail.
Pros:
- High pigment concentration provides excellent coverage with smooth application and no visible brush strokes
- Convenient dropper bottles with 8 essential metallic colors including silver, gold, bronze, brass, copper, and gunmetal variants
- Water-based, non-toxic, and non-flammable formula that adheres exceptionally well to difficult surfaces like metal and plastic
Cons:
- Limited color selection with only 8 shades, lacking options like rose gold that some users desire
- Smaller 18ml bottle size may require frequent repurchasing for heavy use projects
- Premium pricing compared to basic acrylic paint sets due to specialized metallic formulation
Factors to Consider When Choosing Metallic Paints for Miniatures
When I’m selecting metallic paints for miniature projects, I evaluate five critical factors that directly impact the final result’s quality and appearance. Paint coverage quality determines how evenly the metallic finish spreads across detailed surfaces, while pigment concentration levels affect the intensity and authenticity of the metallic sheen. I also consider surface adhesion properties for durability, drying time requirements for workflow efficiency, and color range variety to match specific miniature themes and historical accuracy needs.
Paint Coverage Quality
Paint coverage quality stands as the foundation of professional-looking miniature finishes, determining whether your models showcase crisp details or suffer from uneven, streaky applications. I’ve found that superior metallic paints achieve excellent coverage with just 1-2 thin coats, preserving intricate miniature details while maintaining efficiency.
High-quality formulations incorporate specialized materials like Aluminium Flake, delivering enhanced shimmer and exceptional coverage compared to standard alternatives. These advanced compositions provide better pigmentation density, reducing the visible brush strokes that plague inferior products.
Adhesion properties considerably impact coverage quality across different surfaces. Premium metallic paints bond effectively to both metal and plastic substrates, ensuring consistent application regardless of miniature material. Paint consistency directly influences how smoothly the product flows and levels, with ideal density preventing pooling while maintaining adequate coverage opacity.
Pigment Concentration Levels
Although coverage quality forms the foundation of professional finishes, pigment concentration levels determine the ultimate visual impact and application efficiency of your metallic paints. Higher pigment concentrations deliver superior coverage with fewer coats. I’ve found that paints with specialized blends like Aluminum Flake and Micra create enhanced shimmer while maintaining excellent coverage for detailed miniature work.
Strongly pigmented metallic paints offer two key advantages: improved aesthetic quality and enhanced longevity that prevents color fading. The pigment concentration directly affects your paint’s base formula, influencing application smoothness and surface flow characteristics.
When selecting metallic paints, I prioritize high pigment content formulations. These produce shinier, more realistic metallic effects essential for professional miniature painting. The concentration level acts as your primary indicator of both visual quality and practical performance.
Surface Adhesion Properties
Surface adhesion determines whether your metallic finish will endure handling or chip away during the first game session. I prioritize paints with specialized bonding additives that grip metal and plastic surfaces effectively. High pigment concentration directly impacts adhesion strength while reducing coat requirements. This means fewer layers and stronger initial bonds.
Water-based formulations often include polymer additives that create superior surface bonding. These compounds form molecular connections with your miniature’s material, providing durability against repeated handling. I’ve found that paints with smooth application properties distribute evenly across detailed surfaces, ensuring consistent grip across intricate areas.
Surface preparation remains essential for ideal adhesion. Clean surfaces and proper primers multiply your paint’s bonding potential exponentially. The right metallic paint combined with preparation creates finishes that withstand gaming sessions and display conditions without deterioration.
Drying Time Requirements
Ideal drying times directly influence your painting workflow and final finish quality. Most metallic acrylics dry within 30 minutes to 1 hour, enabling efficient layering and detail work. Fast-drying formulations reduce wait times between coats, accelerating your project timeline considerably.
Thickness affects drying speed. Thin applications dry faster but may require multiple coats for best coverage and shine. I recommend applying several thin layers rather than one thick coat to achieve superior metallic luster.
Quick drying times enhance blending techniques while minimizing smudging risks. You’ll maintain previously applied layers without disturbance when adding new details. Consider paint formulation differences—some metallics contain specific additives that alter drying properties. Test drying times on practice surfaces before committing to your miniature. This approach guarantees predictable results and prevents workflow disruptions during critical painting phases.
Color Range Variety
A thorough color range transforms your miniature painting from basic coverage to authentic, detailed artistry. Essential metallic shades include gold, silver, bronze, and copper. These foundational colors serve as building blocks for realistic weapon and armor detailing.
I recommend paint sets offering both traditional and niche metallic shades. You’ll achieve greater customization flexibility when your palette extends beyond standard options. High-quality sets typically contain 8-12 distinct metallic colors, providing sufficient variety for most projects.
Mixing capabilities expand your color options exponentially. Gold and copper combinations create warm brass tones. Silver mixed with blue produces steel effects. Paint manufacturers specifically formulate hobby-oriented sets with enhanced shimmer properties and superior coverage characteristics. High pigment concentrations guarantee vibrant results with fewer coats, making painting sessions more efficient and cost-effective.
Mixing Compatibility Options
Because metallics behave differently than standard acrylics when combined, selecting paints with proven mixing compatibility prevents separation, clumping, and coverage loss. I prioritize brands that maintain formula integrity when blending metallic and non-metallic colors together.
Specialized formulations enhance mixing capability without compromising coverage quality. You’ll achieve superior gradient effects and custom metallic combinations with compatible paint bases. I recommend testing small amounts first to verify proper blending behavior.
Look for extensive color palettes that support versatile mixing options. Essential base shades expand your customization possibilities greatly. Effortless mixing capability reveals creative potential for unique metallic effects on your miniatures.
Compatible metallics blend smoothly to create variations in finish intensity. This flexibility proves essential for detailed miniature work requiring subtle metallic shifts and custom shade development.
Application Technique Suitability
Beyond mixing capabilities, your chosen metallic paints must perform reliably across different application methods to achieve professional results. I prioritize paints that excel in dry brushing techniques, where the metallic particles catch light effectively on raised surfaces. Airbrush compatibility proves essential for large-scale coverage and smooth gradients. Quality formulations maintain consistent particle suspension whether you’re using fine detail brushes or broader applications.
High-pigmentation metallics deliver superior coverage in 1-2 thin coats, reducing application time notably. Quick-drying formulations allow faster layering without extended waiting periods between coats. Water-resistant properties guarantee durability during corrections and subsequent paint layers. The paint’s viscosity affects technique suitability directly—thinner consistencies work better for airbrushing, while slightly thicker formulations excel in brush applications. Specialized blends enhance shimmer effects regardless of your chosen application method.
Bottle Design Functionality
While paint quality matters most, bottle design directly impacts your painting efficiency and long-term storage success. I prioritize squeeze bottles for controlled dispensing during detail work. These designs minimize mess and provide consistent flow rates.
Dripper bottles offer superior precision for color mixing. They dispense exact amounts, reducing waste by up to 40% compared to traditional caps. I can create custom metallics without excess paint loss.
Effective sealing prevents oxidation and maintains paint viscosity. Look for twist caps with rubber gaskets or flip-top designs that create airtight barriers.
Transparent bottles let me monitor paint levels instantly. This prevents mid-project interruptions when supplies run low. Smaller 17ml bottles work best for miniatures, offering cost efficiency while encouraging color experimentation without excessive stockpiling.
On a final note
I’ve tested these metallic paints extensively, and each delivers professional-grade results for miniature painting. Your choice depends on specific needs: Vallejo sets offer superior color accuracy and consistency, while Army Painter provides excellent coverage and flow characteristics. Caliart delivers exceptional value for beginners. Consider pigment density, drying time, and brush compatibility when selecting. These metallics will elevate your miniature work greatly with proper application techniques.
