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Until now, the most important tools for painting a scale model have been the airbrush and the paintbrush. Now, we’re adding a new element to this equation. We introduce a new way of approaching painting in modeling. INTRODUCTION In our hobby, we can find acrylic paints, enamels, lacquers, waxes, etc., and for their application, we use the brush, the airbrush, and the sprayer. Without having a line specifically developed to meet the needs of modelers, some have occasionally used markers from the fine arts and crafts sector to experiment on scale models; sometimes with alcohol-based or permanent markers and always with standard colors that do not meet expectations or limit finishes and do not offer much resistance to subsequent treatments. School markers and those from fine arts are designed to paint on surfaces such as paper, wood, fabric, etc. Therefore, their use on plastic or resin does not yield good results since their adhesion, coverage, and resistance are very limited. From now on, we will have specific acrylic markers for modelling with ideal characteristics for working on scale models. CONCEPT We modelers need to experiment to discover new possibilities and new effects. As a company, AK needs to innovate constantly and be at the forefront of our hobby. It is under both premises that the idea of creating this new product arises. The current needs of our society also increasingly demand non-toxic products, easy to use, and that allow us to bring the hobby closer to more people in a simple way so they can get hooked on modeling. All the products used for the development of the acrylic inks in these markers are environmentally friendly. The idea of painting with a special marker for modeling is a natural way to start working with models, allowing you to bring any detail to life quickly and easily. It allows for precise application of a base coat on surfaces of plastic, resin, or metal, with or without priming, and with maximum control and comfort. The markers are designed for painting accessories and small parts, cockpits, vehicles in small scales, etc., but they also open up a multitude of possibilities for experimentation. PAINTING The most important aspect of the markers is the paint, and in this case, its development has been the most laborious part of the manufacturing process, and we have not stopped until we get it. Achieving a paint that is resistant while also providing good coverage and the desired finish for modelers has been quite a challenge. Different types of formulations were able to meet some of the needs but not 100% of the requirements. Some of the most important features we needed to achieve were: resistance to any modeling product and no smudging or reactivation like other markers on the market. Also, coverage capacity is a crucial characteristic, requiring a high pigment concentration to achieve it. The finish of the formula is matte, although due to the characteristics of some pigments, some colors may result in a slightly satin finish. If you prefer very glossy or very matte finishes, you can varnish the paint without any issues using any type of varnish. To see the final result, wait until the paint is completely dry. Due to the characteristics of the formula, the paint may appear to change in tone when it is still wet. THE TIP The tip is another important aspect of the marker. It has to be in line with the paint being used for everything to work properly. The wetting and anti-clogging agent in the paint allows the high-quality felt tip to provide a smooth and precise stroke. The special felt tip should be used gently, without pressing too hard. You can use the tip for details or the side to cover larger areas. RECOMMENDATIONS The RC Markers are recommended for hobbyists who are just starting out and for any experienced modeler who wants to paint details or apply small base coats quickly. They are not a substitute for paints since they do not allow for certain techniques like wet blending, feathering, dry brushing, etc., which are only possible with traditional paint. They are ideal for creating hard-edge camouflage patterns, disruptive patterns, etc. For very vibrant colors like reds, yellows, oranges, etc., it’s recommended to first paint with white underneath. Although not necessary, as with any type of paint, this technique will make these tones appear more vibrant and saturated. This product is not recommended for painting an entire model. For a large piece, we recommend using an airbrush and regular paint. The markers are extremely useful for painting details with great precision. They are perfect as a base for applying washes and filters afterward. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Can I paint a tank, an airplane, or a whole model? You can paint whatever you want. If it’s a small-scale kit, markers are very practical. For painting larger models, it’s better to continue using the airbrush for the base coats. What’s the capacity of a marker? The durability of the paint in a marker is described by meters, and in our case, the writing allows between 60 and 70 meters. How do I store the markers? The paint characteristics of the RC Markers allow for temperature differences from 50°C to -20°C without altering their properties, which is important when shipping the markers by air. Can I change the finish of the markers? Once the work is finished, we can use any type of varnish to achieve the desired finish: matte, satin, or glossy. Is it possible to apply multiple layers of paint? We can apply a second layer to cover more, almost immediately. Keep in mind that lighter colors may need more coats to cover, like any paint, especially if we paint without priming on dark bases. Usually, dark colors tend to cover better on any type of paint and substrate. Can I paint over the ink from the markers? You can paint over what’s been painted with the markers without any problem and without fear of removing the paint. This is very useful especially when we want to create hard-edge camouflages, mottling effects, etc. After painting a model kit completely, sometimes we still think that one more detail could have filled a gap or made a difference, but sometimes we feel too lazy to bring out the airbrush again or prepare a mixture to add the final detail. With a marker, this detail only takes a minute: paint, age minimally, and... done!
