How to Mix Revell Email Color Paints for Custom Shades

Quick answer

Mix Revell Email Color paints by combining colors in small batches, thinning with Revell Color Mix for brush or airbrush use, and testing on a scrap surface before applying to your model. Start with a 1:1 ratio of the base colors, then adjust gradually. Always mix more than you think you need to avoid running out mid-project.

Revell Email Color is a synthetic resin enamel that does not attack plastic model surfaces, making it a reliable choice for custom color mixing. Whether you need a specific military shade or a unique automotive hue, blending these enamels lets you achieve shades not available off the shelf.

This guide walks through the practical steps of mixing, thinning, and testing custom colors. You will learn how to combine colors safely, avoid common pitfalls like uneven drying or clogged airbrushes, and get consistent results across your model.

Why mix Revell Email Color instead of buying pre-mixed shades

Revell Email Color offers a wide range of colors, but sometimes you need a shade that is not in the catalog. Mixing allows you to match historical camouflage patterns, replicate a specific vehicle color, or create a weathered effect. Because these enamels can be mixed with each other (except signal color), you have a flexible palette to work with.

Mixing also helps you save money and shelf space. Instead of buying multiple specialized colors, you can blend a few base colors to achieve many variations. This is especially useful for modelers who work on diverse projects and want to avoid accumulating unused paint jars.

• Always check that the colors you plan to mix are not signal color, as it cannot be mixed with others.
• Keep a notebook of your successful mixes for future reference.

Tools and materials for safe enamel mixing

Before you start, gather the essentials: a clean mixing palette or small glass jars, stirring sticks, pipettes or syringes for accurate measurement, and Revell Color Mix for thinning. Work in a well-ventilated area because enamels have a strong odor. Nitrile gloves and a respirator are recommended if you are sensitive to fumes.

For airbrush use, you will also need the appropriate thinner and a spray gun. Revell Email Color can be diluted with Revell Color Mix to achieve a consistency suitable for airbrushing. Always test your mix on a scrap piece of plastic to ensure compatibility and drying time.

• Use separate stirring sticks for each color to avoid cross-contamination.
• Label your mixed paint jars with the date and recipe.

Step-by-step mixing process

Start by selecting your base colors. For example, to create a custom olive drab, you might combine Matt "Light Olive" (RAL 7003) Email Color with a small amount of Matt "Ocher Brown" (RAL 1011) Aqua Color. Note that Aqua Color is acrylic and should not be mixed with Email Color enamel; use only Email Color with Email Color. Mix in a 1:1 ratio initially, then adjust by adding one drop at a time until you reach the desired shade.

Stir thoroughly with a clean stick. Enamels need consistent agitation to blend fully. Once mixed, test the color on a scrap plastic card and let it dry. Enamel colors often dry slightly darker or lighter than they appear wet, so always check after full cure. If the shade is off, adjust with more of one component and retest.

• Mix small batches first to avoid wasting paint.
• Record the exact ratio of each color for reproducibility.

Thinning for brush and airbrush application

For brush painting, you may not need to thin Revell Email Color much, as it is designed for direct use. However, if the paint feels too thick, add a few drops of Revell Color Mix and stir well. For airbrushing, thin the paint to a consistency similar to milk, typically around 1 part thinner to 2 parts paint, but adjust based on your airbrush and nozzle size.

Always add thinner gradually and test spray on a scrap surface. Too much thinner can cause poor coverage and runs, while too little can clog the airbrush. Clean your airbrush immediately after use with Revell Color Mix or a suitable enamel cleaner.

• Use a dedicated airbrush thinner for best results; do not use water with enamels.
• Keep a spare jar of pre-thinned paint for touch-ups during a session.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

One frequent mistake is mixing incompatible paint types, such as enamel with acrylic. Revell Email Color is enamel, while Aqua Color is acrylic; they do not mix well and can cause curdling or poor adhesion. Always check the label before combining. Another error is using dirty tools, which can introduce particles or unwanted color into your mix.

Over-thinning is another pitfall. If the paint becomes too thin, it may not cover properly and can weaken the bond with the plastic. Start with less thinner and add more if needed. Finally, not testing the mix before applying to the model can lead to disappointing results; always do a test patch.

• Clean all tools with Revell Color Mix or enamel thinner before switching colors.
• Store mixed paint in airtight jars to prevent drying.

Mixing workflow checklist

1. Prepare your workspace: Set up a well-ventilated area with all tools: mixing jars, stirrers, pipettes, Revell Color Mix, and scrap plastic for testing. Wear gloves and a respirator if needed. Checkpoint: Ensure no open flames or sparks nearby, as enamels are flammable.
2. Select and measure base colors: Choose compatible Email Color shades. Use pipettes to measure equal parts of each color into a mixing jar. Start with a 1:1 ratio. Checkpoint: Verify that none of the colors are signal color, which cannot be mixed.
3. Mix and test the shade: Stir thoroughly until uniform. Apply a small drop to scrap plastic and let dry completely. Compare to your target color under natural light. Checkpoint: If the shade is off, adjust with single drops of one color and retest.
4. Thin for application: For brush painting, use as-is or add a few drops of Revell Color Mix. For airbrush, thin to a milky consistency, typically 1 part thinner to 2 parts paint. Checkpoint: Test spray on scrap to ensure proper flow and coverage.
5. Apply to model and record recipe: Paint your model using thin, even coats. Note the exact mixing ratio and any thinning adjustments for future reference. Checkpoint: Store leftover mixed paint in a labeled airtight jar for touch-ups.

Products that support custom mixing

• Matt "Light Olive" (RAL 7003) Email Color - 14ml: Revell Color is a synthetic resin enamel paint that does not attack the plastic surface of plastic models. The 14 ml paint can, which is popular with many hobbyists, can also be used to paint many other materials. All colors - except signal color - can be mixed with each other and can be diluted with 'Revell Color Mix'. This means that the paint can be applied not only with a brush, but also with a spray gun. This enamel is ideal as a base for custom military and earth tones. Its compatibility with Revell Color Mix allows you to thin it for airbrushing, and it can be blended with other Email Colors to create unique shades.
• Revell "Basic Color" Spray Primer - 150ml: A good primer with REVELL BASIC COLOR is the best prerequisite for achieving optimal results with careful application of the paint. Priming your model before applying mixed enamels ensures better adhesion and a uniform base, which is crucial for accurate color reproduction and preventing the plastic from showing through.
• Model Set Messerschmitt Bf109G-10 Erla: Model Set Messerschmitt Bf109G-10 Erla: Historical precision on a large scale. With demanding large models on a scale of 1:32, the challenge often lies in the details. Nothing disrupts the overall impression more than rudimentary cockpits or static surfaces, which immediately catch the eye at this size. In addition, the search for the exact colors for historical camouflage patterns often slows down the drive. This kit is a prime candidate for custom mixing, as historical camouflage patterns often require specific shades not available pre-mixed. Mixing your own colors lets you match reference photos accurately.

Mixing Revell Email Color opens up a world of custom shades for your models. With careful measurement, testing, and the right thinning technique, you can achieve professional results. Remember to work safely, keep records, and practice on scrap before committing to your model.