Vallejo True Metallic Metal

Discover the authentic shine of metal

The Vallejo True Metallic Metal collection redefines how artists paint metallic surfaces on miniatures, scale models, and creative projects. Developed by Vallejo’s laboratories, this range doesn’t just imitate metallic shine—it creates it. Thanks to its innovative formula with real metallic pigments, every stroke reflects light naturally, producing a dynamic, vibrant effect full of depth and realism.

Unlike traditional metallic tones, Vallejo True Metallic Metal was designed under the BSL model (Base – Shade – Light)—a system that guides artists step by step through the color-building process. This structure ensures consistent, realistic, and high-contrast results while maintaining complete control. The line is suitable for both beginners seeking intuitive results and professionals pursuing precision and chromatic coherence in every layer.

What’s in this collection

Inside this collection, you’ll find a wide selection of tones organized into four coordinated sub-ranges that work perfectly together:

  • Base: Fundamental metallic tones that serve as the foundation of the finish. Colors like Aged Metal, Obsidian Black, or Imperial Gold provide a solid and uniform starting point for defining the overall tone.
  • Shade: Satin or darker tones that add depth and modulation without dulling the natural shine. Examples like Rusty Metal Shade or Ancient Copper Shade help create realistic volume with smooth control.
  • Light: Bright, highly reflective tones designed to accentuate edges, highlights, and illuminated areas. Shades such as Sterling Silver Light or Sapphire Blue Light bring that final touch of brilliance to your work.
  • Airbrush: Fluid versions optimized for airbrush use, formulated with ultra-fine pigments for smooth application and even coverage across large surfaces or gradients.

Each color maintains perfect compatibility with the rest, allowing you to mix and match freely without losing harmony. This makes the Vallejo True Metallic Metal collection an incredibly versatile tool for any type of project.

Benefits, uses, and practical tips

The success of this range lies in its smooth flow and fine pigmentation. These paints spread easily, leaving a thin but fully opaque layer—ideal for emphasizing small details without covering them up. The ultra-fine metallic particles create a realistic, uniform shine without visible grain, even under direct light.

Tips for best results:

  • Prime your models with a black or dark gray base to enhance depth and contrast.
  • Apply the Base tone first, then gradually build shadows and highlights with Shade and Light tones.
  • Use Airbrush versions to achieve smooth gradients or atmospheric effects on large surfaces.
  • Experiment with color glazes to simulate oxidation, heat effects, or environmental reflections.
  • Finish with a satin varnish to maintain the natural metallic glow, or a matte varnish for a weathered, aged look.

This collection was designed to deliver a natural, balanced metallic finish without visual oversaturation, adapting seamlessly to both realistic and stylized painting styles. Its stable behavior and compatibility with other Vallejo acrylic ranges make it a reliable choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike.

Your creativity, powered by SprayGunner

At SprayGunner, we know that great art begins with the right tools. That’s why we offer the complete Vallejo True Metallic Metal range—alongside premium airbrushes, compressors, primers, varnishes, and cleaning accessories—to make your creative experience smooth from the very first stroke.

Explore the available sets or pick your favorite colors individually. Give your creations the shine, texture, and vitality that only true metal can offer.

Shop now at SprayGunner!