First time metalizer

Thanks a ton this info will come in handy!

i also use metalizers..same care should be taken to avoid printing your tumbs.. :) i sealed with Gunze Sanyo Gloss Clear. Always sealed before masking ... i follow these step in FSM article (sorry i forgot maybe March or April 2000) ..

I use Testors Metalizers a lot, and as long as you follow Holley's advice they should work fine. Clean the surface thoroughly!! Wear cotton gloves to handle pieces before and after painting, and seal after buffing. I haven't tried Alclad, but I'd like to give 'em a shot.
Glenn

I used wet newspaper to mask with. The fingerprint problem was solved by sealing with Model Master Metalizer Sealer. I have yet to try Alclad, but have heard good things about it. I plan on testing it out soon.

My suggestion based on previous experiences: DON'T USE MODEL MASTER Metalizer, it'll rip off when masked or you'll leave your finger prints just grabbing the model two weeks later after painting the model. Use ALCLAD instead, kind off expensive but without the drawbacks I mentioned above. You don't have to thin it and can be masked without worries. If you want to weather your model use different shades of metal finish, i.e. Chrome silver overall color and paint some panels with stainless steel.

Good luck.

Also if you intend to mask over it, I would strongly recommend that you give it a good coat of clear before masking. The finishes tend to be fragile. I would also recommend using a low tack tape product to prevent lifts.

The Model Master Metalizer I sprayed needed no thinning. I sprayed over a light gray primer @ 20 psi. I laid down several thin coats and allowed to dry before buffing. Beware of fingerprints...be sure to wash thouroghly before using metalizer, I had some problems with finger oils on the first time I tried. Be sure to seal after buffing.