Vallejo True Metallic Metal
The brilliance of real metal
For a long time, miniature painters, figure artists, diorama builders, and hobbyists have wondered how to convincingly recreate metallic surfaces. The debate usually centers on one issue: while regular metallic paints can produce shiny finishes, they often look flat or lack depth. To solve that problem, artists have tried adding highlights and shadows manually to give the illusion of volume - searching for a natural result that reacts to light like true metal would.
Enter Vallejo True Metallic Metal (TMM) - a revolutionary approach that’s capturing the attention of the creative community worldwide.
This new line from Vallejo offers a more direct, intuitive, and efficient experience when painting metals. It combines genuine metallic pigments with a structured workflow that allows artists to achieve realistic reflections, depth, and contrast without relying on complex or time-consuming methods. Whether you’re just starting out or already an experienced modeler, TMM provides a natural way for metal to come alive on your surfaces.
For airbrush artists, modelers, miniature painters, cosplay creators, and even body artists, TMM represents true evolution. It’s a complete system designed to reproduce the visual richness of real metal while keeping full control over light and shadow. The result is a finish that feels authentic – natural shine, vibrant tone shifts, and deep chromatic variation.
And best of all, this exciting new range is already available at SprayGunner, where you can find both sets and individual colors to match your style and explore every creative possibility.
What is the True Metallic Metal technique?
The True Metallic Metal (TMM) technique relies on paints that use real metallic pigments. Unlike flat colors that only imitate the look of metal, these paints contain particles that actually reflect light, creating genuine highlights and natural shifts in tone depending on how the piece is viewed. That’s why surfaces painted with TMM appear alive - they behave like metal, not just look like it.
Although it sounds simple, the secret lies in how the material is used. Painting with TMM isn’t just about applying something shiny; it’s about integrating light, shadow, and volume to give the piece real depth. Fortunately, Vallejo has designed this system to make that process accessible to everyone, thanks to a clear structure built around base tones, shades, and highlights formulated specifically for this purpose.
TMM vs NMM: What’s the difference?
There are two main approaches to painting metal on miniatures: TMM and NMM (Non-Metallic Metal). Both can deliver stunning results, but their philosophies are completely different.
TMM uses paints with real metallic pigments, so the light reflects naturally. The shine changes as you rotate the figure, giving it a truly lifelike appearance.
NMM, on the other hand, imitates metal by using traditional matte paints. This technique gives the artist full control over painted lights and shadows, resulting in a highly expressive style - but it also demands more time and practice to master.
The biggest advantage of TMM is its fluidity. It allows artists to create convincing effects with less “painterly” intervention, making it friendlier for those who want realism and movement without sacrificing detail or spending endless hours on layering. It also performs beautifully both with a brush and an airbrush.
Below is a simple comparison:
| Aspect | True Metallic Metal (TMM) | Non-Metallic Metal (NMM) |
|---|---|---|
| Source of shine | Real metallic pigment | Simulated with matte colors |
| Light behavior | Natural reflection, changes with viewing angle | “Fixed” light, manually painted |
| Learning difficulty | Low to medium | Medium to high |
| Working time | Fast | Slow |
| Final look | Realistic, dynamic | Stylized, illustrative |
| Best suited for | Gaming miniatures, sci-fi, fantasy, armor, mechs, vehicles | Stylized art, display pieces, competition entries |
Vallejo’s approach: Precision and consistency at every step
One of the biggest strengths of Vallejo True Metallic Metal is that it’s not just another paint range - it’s a complete painting system. Vallejo developed its own structured method called BSL (Base - Shade - Light), designed so any artist (from beginner to professional) can achieve consistent, realistic results without guesswork. This method divides the painting process into three essential stages:
- Base - to establish the primary metallic tone.
- Shade - to add depth and volume with controlled shadows.
- Light - to restore brilliance and emphasize natural highlights.
From this structure come the four sub-ranges that make up the full True Metallic Metal collection:
Base
Balanced, opaque metallic tones that serve as the foundation for any metal surface. Colors like Aged Metal (18 ml), Obsidian Black (18 ml), or Imperial Gold (18 ml) provide solid starting points for aged steel, dark iron, or precious metals.
These paints work beautifully as a starting point because they create a balanced metallic surface that accepts shadows, highlights, and further effects without any issues. When applied to large miniatures or broad armor plates, they help unify the model and prevent the initial layer from looking flat or dull.
They are also versatile enough to fit fantasy, sci-fi, or more realistic styles. This range performs especially well when you want to build the entire look from the ground up without worrying about oversaturation or unwanted reflections.
Shade
Satin or darker tones that create shadow and depth without dulling the metallic sheen. Examples include Rusty Metal Shade (18 ml) and Hydra Turquoise Shade (18 ml) – perfect for defining recesses and adding subtle patina.
Shade paints make it much easier to define the structure of a model, since they flow smoothly into deeper areas and reinforce natural volumes. They are perfect for painters who want stronger contrast without losing the metallic shine, something that often happens with traditional inks or washes.
They also allow you to control intensity layer by layer, making it simple to create subtle effects or more dramatic transitions depending on what the piece needs. Applying them carefully in recesses and mechanical joints can completely change how a metallic figure reads.
Light
Brighter, more reflective metallics that enhance edges, highlights, and light transitions. Shades like Sterling Silver Light (18 ml) or Sapphire Blue Light (18 ml) deliver that final touch that makes the metal “breathe.”
Highlight tones are especially useful when the goal is to make details stand out from a distance. Their more reflective nature emphasizes edges, rivets, and raised surfaces that catch natural light, creating a striking and professional look without requiring advanced techniques.
They are highly valued by painters working on display models, competition pieces, or promotional photos, since they add a “polished” finish that boosts visual impact. Even when applied gently, these light tones create a subtle metallic “breathing” effect that naturally complements the base and shade colors.
Airbrush
Versions formulated specifically for airbrush use, offering superior flow and ultra-fine pigments. Ideal for covering large areas or creating smooth gradients — such as Vallejo True Metallic Metal Airbrush Hydra Turquoise (18 ml) or Amethyst Purple (18 ml).
The airbrush versions are formulated to deliver an exceptionally smooth flow, allowing you to cover large areas without leaving visible spray patterns. This becomes especially useful when aiming for clean metallic gradients on armor, vehicles, or any big surface where a brush would leave unwanted texture.
Their ability to lay down pigment evenly also makes complex transitions easier to achieve while reducing working time. These paints are suitable for both quick projects and detailed pieces where fine, consistent metallics are essential.
This system provides not only technical precision but also chromatic harmony. Each family of colors shares the same pigment base, allowing perfect mixing without tonal imbalance. For instance, combining Aged Metal Base, Rusty Metal Shade, and Sterling Silver Light yields seamless transitions from shadow to shine.
In short, Vallejo has turned metallic painting from trial-and-error into a guided, reliable process - clear, adaptable to any style, and fully compatible with the brand’s other acrylic ranges. The end result is a vibrant metallic surface with genuine depth and a shine that behaves exactly like real metal.
How to paint with True Metallic Metal step by step
Painting with True Metallic Metal is not just about applying a shiny coat - it’s a structured process that, when followed thoughtfully, delivers visually striking results. Below is a recommended workflow to help you make the most of Vallejo’s BSL system:
1. Preparation and priming
As with any project, everything begins with a solid foundation. Make sure the surface is clean and free of grease or dust. A black or dark gray primer works best because it enhances depth and contrast in the metallic finish. A thin, even layer is all you need.
2. Applying the Base
Start by laying down the metallic base color that will define the overall tone of the metal. For aged steel, you can begin with Aged Metal Base (18 ml). For gold or bronze finishes, Imperial Gold Base (18 ml) is an excellent choice. Use a brush for precise, local application or an airbrush for large surfaces and smoother coverage.
3. Creating shadows with Shade
Once the base coat is dry, apply the matching Shade from the same color family. Shade tones like Rusty Metal Shade (18 ml) or Obsidian Black Shade (18 ml) can be thinned down to create soft transitions. This step adds volume and defines the darker areas without dulling the metallic shine.
4. Applying highlights with Light
To restore brightness and emphasize edges or light-catching areas, apply small touches or glazes using Light tones. Sterling Silver Light (18 ml) and Sapphire Blue Light (18 ml) work beautifully on both warm and cool metals. For a higher-contrast finish, spray these tones with low air pressure or use dry brushing to bring out the raised details.
5. Additional effects and glazes
Once your main volumes are set, you can enrich the finish with transparent color glazes. A touch of Amethyst Purple Airbrush (18 ml) can introduce a mystical or fantasy tone, while a glaze using Ancient Copper Shade (18 ml) brings a warm, aged patina. These effects are perfect for fantasy miniatures, armor, and futuristic mechs.
6. Varnishing and final finish
The type of varnish you use determines your final look:
- Matte: Reduces shine; ideal for worn or oxidized metal.
- Satin: Preserves a natural sheen without over-reflecting light.
- Gloss: Emphasizes the look of polished or chrome metal.
Avoid applying thick varnish layers, as they may distort the metallic reflection. For added protection, a light satin coat applied by spray or airbrush is usually enough.
Suggested combinations
The True Metallic Metal system by Vallejo blends technique and simplicity. With just a few well-applied layers and the right tone selection, you can achieve metallic surfaces with real reflections - without relying on complex or time-consuming techniques. Whether you paint with an airbrush or a brush, the result will always be striking. Here are some practical color combinations:
| Metal style | Base | Shade | Light | Visual result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aged steel | Aged Metal | Rusty Metal | Sterling Silver | Realistic texture and strong contrast |
| Bright gold | Imperial Gold | Ancient Copper | Radiant Yellow | Warm, uniform shine |
| Cold sci-fi metal | Obsidian Black | Dusken Green | Sapphire Blue | Modern, cool-blue reflection |
| Dark gothic iron | Aged Metal | Obsidian Black | Amethyst Purple | Deep tone with mystical color highlights |
The Vallejo True Metallic Metal line makes it easier than ever to create believable metal effects with genuine depth and dimension. Whether you’re working on fantasy figures, sci-fi armor, or detailed mechanical builds, these paints bring life and realism to every metallic surface.
Advantages of working with the Vallejo True Metallic Metal range
When it comes to representing realistic metallic surfaces, details truly matter. That’s why Vallejo True Metallic Metal is not just another collection within the brand’s catalog - it’s a carefully engineered tool designed to optimize the artist’s workflow. Each formulation has been developed to deliver predictable, consistent results without sacrificing the creative spontaneity that makes scale modeling an art form.
One of its main strengths is its smooth flow. The paints in the TMM range apply evenly and with full control, whether using a brush or an airbrush. The consistency is perfect for creating natural transitions between tones without the need for additional thinners. This quality also makes it easier to work on textured surfaces or hard-to-reach areas, since the pigment settles uniformly without pooling or buildup.
Another major advantage is its high pigmentation, achieved through finely milled metallic particles. This means the metallic shine is more even and less grainy than in traditional metallic paints.
Equally important is the perfect compatibility between color families. Because the entire line is structured under the BSL model (Base, Shade, and Light), colors from the same group behave as natural extensions of one another. For example, you can combine Aged Metal Base with Rusty Metal Shade and Sterling Silver Light without worrying about tonal or textural mismatches. This reduces guesswork and saves time when mixing or testing colors.
Additionally, the natural finish of True Metallic Metal prevents visual oversaturation. It doesn’t over-shine or look artificial - it maintains the surface texture and the richness of metallic hues. This makes it a perfect choice not only for fantasy miniatures, but also for other scale models like armor panels, mechs, or vehicle parts where a believable metallic tone is essential.
Finally, this range was designed with all kinds of artists in mind. Beginners can achieve professional results in just a few layers, while experienced painters can explore complex combinations, glazes, and subtle lighting effects. Vallejo True Metallic Metal offers a fast, elegant, and effective solution for anyone who wants their projects to have that “real metal glow” that separates good work from truly exceptional art.
Practical comparison: TMM vs. NMM on miniatures
Although both techniques - True Metallic Metal (TMM) and Non-Metallic Metal (NMM) — aim for the same goal, their results and the way they’re achieved are quite different. Understanding that distinction helps artists decide which approach best fits their project’s style and artistic intent.
Visually, a model painted with NMM tends to have a more illustrative appearance: the highlights are painted by hand and do not change under real light. This gives total control over contrast, making it ideal for pieces meant to be photographed or displayed under fixed lighting. However, it also requires more time, precision, and a strong understanding of lighting theory.
TMM, on the other hand, introduces something that NMM can’t replicate - the real movement of reflected light. The metallic pigments in True Metallic Metal paints naturally reflect illumination, causing highlights and shadows to shift as the figure is turned or viewed from different angles. This physical behavior of the pigment produces a more lifelike and dynamic effect, ideal for gaming pieces or display models that will be seen under variable lighting conditions.
When to choose each technique
| Project type | Recommended technique | Visual result | Difficulty level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wargaming miniatures or frequently used pieces | TMM | Natural reflections, instant realism | Easy |
| Sci-fi models, mechs, robots | TMM | Dynamic, authentic metallic shine | Medium |
| Dioramas or display pieces with fixed lighting | NMM | Artistic finish, “2D painting” effect | High |
| Competition or showcase pieces | NMM / combined with TMM | Maximum pictorial detail | High |
| Historical vehicle or armor models | TMM | Photorealistic metal, balanced contrast | Low–medium |
Both techniques can coexist. Many artists use TMM as a base to achieve real metallic shine, then apply subtle touches of matte paint to reinforce highlights and shadows, creating a hybrid between physical realism and artistic control.
This flexibility perfectly aligns with SprayGunner’s philosophy — offering tools that don’t limit creativity but empower it. Just as a reliable airbrush or compressor can make your process smoother, a well-formulated paint like Vallejo True Metallic Metal allows the artist to focus on design and expression rather than struggling with materials.
The metal comes to life
Metal has always been a challenge in the world of modeling and artistic painting. It reflects light, shifts color with its environment, and evokes strength, history, and technology all at once. Capturing all that in a miniature, figure, or scale model requires more than skill - it demands paint that behaves like real metal.
That’s exactly what Vallejo True Metallic Metal (TMM) delivers. It merges technique with artistry, the science of pigment with the intuition of the creator. Thanks to its BSL structure (Base, Shade, Light), the artist can gradually build the illusion of volume, reflection, and texture without losing naturalness. Each layer contributes something: the solidity of the base tone, the depth of the shade, and the energy of the final highlight.
And as always, SprayGunner puts the right tools in your hands to make it possible. In our store, you’ll find the full range of Vallejo True Metallic Metal, available in both sets and individual bottles along with airbrushes, compressors, varnishes, and accessories to take your projects to the next level.
When you have the right products, creativity knows no limits… and the metal truly comes to life.
Shop now at SprayGunner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What’s the difference between True Metallic Metal and Vallejo’s traditional Metallic Color?
While both are metallic paints, True Metallic Metal (TMM) is built as a system. Each tone belongs to a color family with Base, Shade, Light, and Airbrush versions, making it easier to create consistent highlights and shadows. The traditional Metallic Color line, on the other hand, consists of standalone tones for more general use or specific effects.
2. Can I use TMM with a brush or only with an airbrush?
TMM paints perform perfectly with both tools. Their smooth flow allows for even brush application without streaks, and their fine formulation ensures clean passage through an airbrush nozzle. Additionally, the Airbrush sub-range is specifically optimized for spraying straight from the bottle with no dilution needed.
3. What primer do you recommend for best results?
Primer color has a big impact on how metallics behave. In general, a black or dark gray primer enhances reflections and depth, while lighter primers like white produce a softer metallic look. SprayGunner recommends high-adhesion acrylic primers such as Badger Stynylrez or Vallejo Surface Primer, both available in multiple shades.
4. Do I need to seal the layers with varnish?
It depends on your desired finish. To preserve the natural metallic sheen, a satin or semi-gloss varnish works best. For an aged or industrial look, a matte finish can be used though it will reduce the intensity of the shine. A light protective coat always helps prevent wear, especially for gaming miniatures handled frequently.
5. Can I mix colors from different families?
Absolutely. All paints in the True Metallic Metal line share the same acrylic base and are fully compatible. You can create your own intermediate metallic tones or blend them with non-metallic colors to achieve effects like oxidation, heat tinting, or environmental reflection. The key is moderation to maintain consistent visual harmony.
6. What complementary products does SprayGunner offer for working with TMM?
At SprayGunner, you’ll find everything you need to get the most out of Vallejo True Metallic Metal:
- Precision airbrushes from brands like Harder & Steenbeck and Iwata - perfect for thin, controlled layers.
- Quiet compressors with adjustable pressure for long painting sessions.
- Vallejo primers and varnishes fully compatible with the TMM range.
- Cleaning and maintenance tools for airbrushes - essential when working with metallic pigments.
Each of these products helps maintain finish quality and long-term durability. Everything is available directly from the store, with fast shipping and friendly, personalized service.