Non-Metal Metallics

Tolen Mar

First Post
I've been working on learning this technique, and Im not terribly fond of the results I've gottn so far. Most likely, it just means I need more practice at it.

But I got to thinking. How many people here use that technique? Why? Why not?
 

log in or register to remove this ad

I use it for online painting contests because it photographs better. It does not look as good in person IMO. I do not use it on a regular basis because it takes much longer than blending and inking metallics for me.
 

Hey, I see you are from Herrin. If we (Mahomet-Seymour) end up facing Harrisburg in the 4A playoffs can you give me a scouting report? ;) Are you into hs football at all?

EDIT: sorry for the thread derailment - one track mind these days...

To make up for it here is a really cool link on sponge painting metallics. Gotta' try that!
 
Last edited:

Sorry, I watch motor sports, and even then the only one I follow is the IRL.

I might occasionally tune in a fight to see if a hockey game breaks out...
 

I've tried NMM, but didn't really like the results. Like Pogre says, it photographs better, but isn't as impressive in person. I still do so on a few figs that it would look good on, since I can get a more rusty/weathered look that way, but even then I still prefer real metallics.
 

The reason I ask is cause I'm not so sure I want to use it much.

Aside from the difficulty in getting it right, theres the extra time spent. All of this for a mini that might not look so good from any angle other than the front?

Since I use my mini's as well as displaying them, is it actually worth the effort?
 

In all honesty, if you're getting good result with the old standby methods of regular metallics, I'd stick with it. It take a LOT of time to get a NMM min to look good from all sides. So much time that I only do so very occasionally.
 

Remember that the only person that counts is you. If you like NMM or regular metallics or just gray paint. that's all that matters.

NMM as one of the master painting techniques to bring the art of miniature painting to a new level. The effects are usually so subtle that most people won't even notice. Only others who understand the effort that goes into that level of subtlety will be suitably impressed.

So... Since you asked my opinion, I'd say put the time and energy into the skills you want to. And paint the miniature to create a look you like.
I think it is worth knowing the technique and using it when you feel the effect will get the look you want.

For me. I use the technique rarely. I like metallic paints and the effects I get from them.

Just some ramblings from the nyrfherdr.
Game ON!
 

You could also use a mix of metalic / non-metalic techniques to achieve a very good result. Use the metalic paints to provide the base color and metalic consistency. Then use the techniques of NMM to provide highlights that are complimentary and really bring out the metalic sheen on the surfaces.
 

Thats actually a pretty good idea D'Karr. I was looking into the technique because I sort of dislike the 'glittery' look of most metallics, maybe a compromise is in order.
 

Remove ads

Top