Mr. Metallic Color GX201 Metal Black Painting Tips
By Newtype: Gundam Model Kits / Gunpla / Paint / Tools | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to apply Mr. Metallic Color GX201 Metal Black for smooth, durable finishes on Gunpla. Step-by-step tips for thinning, spraying, and avoiding common mistakes.
Quick Answer
Mr. Metallic Color GX201 Metal Black delivers a rich, glossy metallic finish with quick drying and strong coating. Use proper thinning and multiple light coats to avoid streaking and get even coverage.
Why Thinning Matters for GX201
Mr. Metallic Color GX201 is a lacquer-based metallic paint designed for airbrush use. Its metallic particles settle quickly, so thorough mixing and proper thinning are essential. Without thinning, the paint can clog your airbrush or leave a rough, uneven surface. Use Mr. Color Leveling Thinner for best results—it slows drying slightly, helping the metallic flakes level out smoothly.
Surface Preparation and Priming
Metallic paints reveal every surface imperfection. Sand your Gunpla parts with 800-1000 grit sandpaper, then apply a smooth primer coat. A gloss black primer under GX201 Metal Black enhances its depth and metallic sparkle. Matte primers can dull the metallic effect, so stick with gloss when you want maximum shine.
Step-by-Step Painting Tips for GX201 Metal Black
- Mix Thoroughly and Thin Correctly: Shake the bottle for at least 2 minutes. Mix 1 part paint to 1.5-2 parts Mr. Color Leveling Thinner. Strain through a mesh filter to remove clumps. Skipping the filter can cause tip dry and clogs.
- Set Airbrush Pressure and Distance: Use 15-20 PSI. Hold the airbrush 4-6 inches from the surface. Apply in light, even passes. Do not flood the part. Too high pressure or too close will blow the metallic particles apart, creating a grainy finish.
- Build Up in Thin Layers: Spray one light coat and let it flash dry for 2-3 minutes. Apply 2-3 more thin coats until the color is even and opaque. Let each coat dry before the next. Rushing thick coats causes runs and hides the metallic sparkle.
- Let It Cure Fully Before Handling: Allow the paint to cure for at least 24 hours before masking or assembling. GX201 dries quickly but needs time to harden fully. Masking too early can lift the metallic layer and ruin the finish.
Product Facts
- Mr. Metallic Color GX GX201 Metal Black 18ml: GX201 is part of the Mr. COLOR GX series, featuring quick drying, strong coating, brighter color development, and improved hiding force without using toluene. This means you get a durable, vibrant metallic finish that dries fast and covers well, with fewer health concerns from solvent exposure.
Mr. Metallic Color GX GX201 Metal Black 18ml
