Quick Answer

Use Colour Primer Plate Mail Metal when you want a metallic steel finish as your basecoat, especially for armor or mechanical parts, but skip it if you need a non-metallic undercoat for transparent or vibrant colors.

Why Choose a Metallic Primer?

A metallic primer like Plate Mail Metal saves time by combining priming and basecoating in one step. It gives a hardened steel look that can be left as is or painted over with other acrylics.

Because it's a primer, it's designed to leave details crisp and provide a good surface for subsequent layers.

Trade-Offs to Consider

While the metallic finish is convenient, it may not suit every project. If you plan to paint vibrant or transparent colors, a non-metallic primer might be a better base.

Also, if you need a bright silver rather than a darker steel tone, this primer's specific shade may not match your vision.

Decision Rules for Using Plate Mail Metal

  • Use it when: You want a metallic steel basecoat for armor, weapons, or mechanical parts and plan to either leave it as is or paint over it with other acrylics.
  • Avoid it when: You need a non-metallic undercoat for transparent paints or very vibrant colors that might be affected by the metallic sheen.
  • Consider alternatives: If you prefer a brighter silver or a different metallic tone, look for other Colour Primer shades that match your desired finish. Always test on a spare model to see how the metallic base interacts with your chosen paints.

Product Facts

  • Colour Primer: Plate Mail Metal: Colour Primer Plate Mail Metal has the look of hardened steel yet remains matt enough that other acrylic paints cover it perfectly. This means you can use it as a basecoat and still paint over it without losing detail or needing extra coats.

    Colour Primer: Plate Mail Metal

    Colour Primer: Plate Mail Metal

Who Should Use This Primer?

Best for

  • Miniature painters who want to save time by priming and basecoating in one step.
  • Hobbyists painting sci-fi or fantasy models with metallic armor or machinery.

Not for

  • Painters who need a neutral or non-metallic primer for vibrant or transparent color schemes.