"Primer for Metallics" Topic

I want to paint some figures that will have several metallic elements, red, blue, and probably other colors.

What should I use for a primer color?

Silver? Regular Primer Gray? Something else?

I am using mostly Tamiya colors.

Mike Bunkermeister Creek
Bunker Talk blog

I usually use black primer for metallics. I don't think it's mandatory, though.

I've never used Tamiya metallics. I'm keeping an eye on this thread.

I tend to use white primer, but I actually prefer gray under Tamiya historical colors. Most of the Tamiya paints have coverage problems with brushed on, and the gray shows through less than white or black.

Yes, typically, black primer.

Always use black-- a tip from Tom Loback of Dragontooth Miniatures in the last century.

I presume flat black primer?

Bunkermeister

Unless I've been seriously misinformed, a primer coat should always be flat. Part of what makes paint glossy is that it doesn't have the microscopic irregularities the next coat should adhere to.

Thank you Robert, that was my understanding also, but never assume.

Bunkermeister

Another for flat black. It's my mainstay

If you want a rust effect, flat brown.

Anime figures you want bright and shiny like a cartoon, flat white. But it requires washing and then highlighting.

I prefer dark brown for gold, brass etc.

I haven't used red or blue metallics but they may benefit from a flat and dark version of the same colour rather than black.