Brass paint help on ICM Firetruck upcoming build

I just ordered ICM 1/35 1917 fire truck. It has lots of “brass” colored parts. I also purchased Vallejo MC bright brass.

Any tips on using the paint to get a smooth color would be appreciated including paint type.

Additionally, ICM has a 1/24 version of the same subject. Which is better?

I have time to change my order which I may do pending feedback.

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If it were me, I would use a gloss black base. It provides a smooth surface for the paint to lay down. I’ve not used the brass paint that you spoke of. These paints usually require a sealer to prevent fingerprints, and rubbing off the paint itself. Before I put any paint down, I clean the part with compressed air to get any dust off right before painting. Hope this helps

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As stated above, definitely start with a Gloss Black base before painting the Brass. The Vallejo color you mentioned is part of their Model Air line and should be airbrush ready (may still require some thinning).

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In my experience, metallic brass paints never really pull off the look of polished brass that well. I recommend to experiment with first applying a good chrome finish (such as Alclad, SMS Hyperchrome, Revell chrome-in-a-can, take your pick), and then after that is completely dry airbrush a mixture of mostly clear yellow with a bit of clear orange acrylic (not lacquer or enamel). This should give a pretty convincing polished brass look. But I can’t stress enough that you should experiment on spare parts first before committing to the actual kit parts.

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Thanks for the help.

I plan to try the gloss black with brass over it as I already have ordered the paint.

RobH I definitely am going to try what you described once I can order the paint.

But for now, there’s enough stuff for me to learn as I’ve not a lot of experience painting with Vallejo paints let alone metallics.

I would recommend red underneath brass instead of black.

Thanks for the tip. I tested with gloss red under the brass. My plan is to use the brass over red on the fire truck.

I appreciate it

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I did the 1/24 ICM fire truck earlier this year. For the brass, I used Tamiya TS-21 gold rattle can over Tamiya gray primer. Here’s how it came out.

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