Always apply Alclad II to a primed surface. Alclad II colors are similar to professional auto-body paints. The solvents in these paints can adversely affect polystyrene plastics. The following are recommended as an undercoat for Regular Metallics.
Alclad primer Gray (ALC-302), White (ALC-306), or Black (ALC-309)or Tamiya Fine Surface Primer L - White (87044), Pink (87146) or Gray (87064). White or gray automotive primers can also be used but should be lightly sanded with 1000 to 1200 grit sandpaper.
High-Shine Metallics should be applied over a gloss undercoat such as Gloss Black Base (ALC-304-305), Clear (ALC-303), or Vallejo Gloss Black Surface Primer (73.660).
Prismatic colors should have an undercoat of two to three light coats of Gloss Black Base (ALC-304-305)followed by two to three coats of Clear (ALC-303) before applying color.
Holomatic Spectral Chrome (ALC-205) should have an undercoat of two to three light coats of Gloss Black Base (ALC-304-305) before applying color.
Apply Alclad II metallics in two or three light coats.
Airbrushing instructions vary depending on the type of finish desired. Ensure the model is clean and dust-free. Smooth and polish any blemishes on the surface to be painted.
Alclad II metallics should be applied at 12-15psi. Buffing is not required, but shading can be accomplished by masking and painting individual panels or polishing them with Micromesh. Alclad II metallics dry to a very durable finish. Masking tape will not damage the finish, but decal setting solutions are not recommended for the Alclad II High-shine finishes.
Holomatic Spectral Chrome (ALC-205) should be sealed with two to three coats of acrylic clear such as Alclad II ALC-311, ALC-312, ALC-313, ALC-314, or ALC-600.
Candy Enamels should have an undercoat of Bright Silver Candy Base (ALC-701). Apply single even coat of ALC-701 at 20-30psi. Allow drying for one hour before applying Alclad Candy Enamels. Candy Enamels should be airbrushed in light coats at 20-25psi. Wait five minutes between each coat and two hours before handling.
Ensure the model is completely clean and dust-free.
Regular metallics apply two to three light coats. Wait five minutes between coats. Apply a backing coat with any polycarbonate paint.
High-Shine metallics apply two to three light coats. Wait five minutes between coats. Apply a backing coat with black or silver polycarbonate paint.
Prismatic colors and Holomatic Spectral Chrome apply two to three light coats to the inside of the body shell. Wait five minutes between coats. Allow paint to dry thoroughly then apply a backing coat with silver or black water-based paint.
Allow 2 hours drying time before handling and 24 hours for hard drying.