Washes: Vallejo vs GW

[Konrath]

So I'm new to painting. I'll be painting mainly with Vallejo Model colour for my mechs. I've heard mixed reviews on the Vallejo Model colour washes. Have they fixed their issues? I'm mainly looking for black, grey and brown washes. Should I use GW instead for the washes? What looks best on mechs that aren't finicky to use? I dont really want to create my own at this point.

Also what do you guys recommend for metallics like gold, metal, bronze?

[Kiff_Stevenson]

Hi!

I haven't used Vallejo's washes, but I've had pretty good luck with GW's. The trick is not to let them pool. Also, I find you get a better 'flow' if you apply the wash over a glossy surface. This is sort of the opposite of what you want when you apply regular paint over a painted surface (there you want to paint over a matt surface because the bumpy texture provides better adhesion for the new layer).

There are lots of great metallics out there right now. I really like P3's range, but that's not to say that GW's aren't good too!

[Edit: spelling]

[Konrath]

Hi!

I haven't used Vallejo's washes, but I've had pretty good luck with GW's. The trick is not to let them pool. Also, I find you get a better 'flow' if you apply the wash over a glossy surface. This is sort of the opposite of what you want when you apply regular paint over a painted surface (there you want to paint over a matt surface because the bumpy texture provides better adhesion for the new layer).

There are lots of great metallics out there right now. I really like P3's range, but that's not to say that GW's aren't good too!

[Edit: spelling]

For metallics I was actually looking for washes to use on top of them. Not sure if people just use black/brown regular washes.

[worktroll]

GW's metallics are great. I've had a mixed experience with Valejo - colours bad experience, but I do have one metallic, brass, which was good.

The one Valejo wash I have - black - needs to be watered down a lot for ordinary use.

W.

[Kiff_Stevenson]

I've only done it once, but a couple of the folks around here swear by an even mixture of black and brown wash for use on metallics that are meant to represent bare alloys.

[SC_Dave]

Konrath,

I did an all metallic paint job a while back. Cut and pasted a link below. If that doesn't work for you try a forum search for "falling skies tribute". The thread does mention the paints & techniques used.

http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=42467.msg977297#msg977297

[KhanPhelanWard]

I only use Vallejo, I have used GW onces or twices but I prefer the Vallejo ones. For the wash, you have to down it with water. Many times I use the wash instead of paint so...

But, you can do a wash of any colour with water, not need a specific one if you don't want to buy many paints.

[Konrath]

Konrath,

I did an all metallic paint job a while back. Cut and pasted a link below. If that doesn't work for you try a forum search for "falling skies tribute". The thread does mention the paints & techniques used.

http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=42467.msg977297#msg977297

Thank you!

[B1Bflyer]

I'm making a video on mixing washes and what brands I use today so hopefully that will help you decide what you like best.

[Ryumyo]

I wish GW would bring back the older ink line they had, stuff was awesome if done right. Can't do some things with mere " water-thin " paint wash, it doesn't work the same.

[cavingjan]

Don't use water for thinning paint for a pin wash. Use medium instead. Different surface tension makes a difference.

[Ryumyo]

Where would one get medium at? Best source? I'll agree that water doesn't make the best pin wash.

[BirdofPrey]

Most places that sell acrylic paints will also have thinners and mediums, and other assorted additives.