Quick Answer

Use LIGHT BRASS as a final edge highlight over darker metallic base coats to create realistic, bright reflections on miniature armor, weapons, and jewelry.

Why LIGHT BRASS Works for Highlights

LIGHT BRASS is a premium acrylic paint from SCALE75 - Hobbies & Games, formulated with high-quality metallic pigment that delivers a smooth, light brass finish. Unlike standard silver or gold paints, its warm, polished tone mimics real brass highlights, making it ideal for adding depth and realism to metallic surfaces on miniatures.

Because the pigment is fine and dense, LIGHT BRASS covers well even over dark undercoats, which is exactly what you need for edge highlighting. The paint’s consistency also allows for controlled application without obscuring fine details—a common challenge with thicker metallics.

Trade-Off: Metallic vs. Non-Metallic Metal

LIGHT BRASS is a true metallic paint, so it reflects light naturally and gives quick, shiny results. However, if you prefer non-metallic metal (NMM) techniques that simulate reflections with matte gradients, this paint won’t serve that style. For standard tabletop or display painting, the metallic shortcut saves time while still looking convincing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using LIGHT BRASS for Highlights

  1. Base Coat with a Darker Metallic: Apply a dark bronze or brass paint (e.g., SCALE75 Heavy Metal or a dark copper) over the area you want to highlight. Let it dry completely. This creates a shadow base that makes the LIGHT BRASS pop. Common mistake: skipping the dark base results in flat, unconvincing highlights.
  2. Thin LIGHT BRASS Slightly: Dip your brush in water, then mix a small amount of LIGHT BRASS on your palette until it reaches a skim-milk consistency. This maintains pigment density while improving flow for precise edges. Checkpoint: if the paint beads up on the model, it's too thin—add a tiny drop of paint to restore body.
  3. Apply Edge Highlights with a Fine Brush: Use a size 0 or 1 pointed brush to trace the raised edges of armor, weapon blades, or jewelry. Load only the tip and glide it along the edge, letting capillary action pull the paint into a thin line. Common mistake: applying too much pressure creates blobs instead of crisp lines. Let the brush do the work.
  4. Build Up with Multiple Passes: If the highlight isn't bright enough, wait for the first pass to dry, then apply a second, narrower pass on the very top of the edge. This creates a gradient effect that looks more natural. Checkpoint: stop after two passes—more layers can obscure the edge and look chalky.
  5. Seal with a Matte or Satin Varnish: Once the paint is fully dry (about 10 minutes), spray or brush on a thin coat of matte or satin varnish to protect the acrylic finish. This also reduces unwanted shine on non-metallic areas. Common mistake: using gloss varnish over the whole model dulls the metallic contrast—use it only on the metallics if you want extra shine.

Product Details

  • LIGHT BRASS: LIGHT BRASS is a premium acrylic paint formulated for hobbyists and miniature painters, delivering a bright, polished brass tone. Its high-quality metallic pigment provides smooth, even coverage that enhances highlights without needing multiple layers.

    LIGHT BRASS

    LIGHT BRASS