MRP-A050 RLM 04

Mr.Paint RLM 04 Gelb — Acrylic Modeling Paint

A water-thinnable acrylic paint from Slovak manufacturer Mr.Paint, from its acrylic Aqua line. It is a modeling paint, not a kit — the package contains only the paint in a dropper bottle. Unlike Mr.Paint's main lacquer (nitro) line, which is designed exclusively for an airbrush, the acrylic Aqua line can be applied with both a brush and an airbrush, is practically odorless, and tools are cleaned with water or the same manufacturer's acrylic thinner.

What the RLM 04 shade is for

RLM 04 Gelb is the yellow used for Luftwaffe tactical identification markings, meaning a marking color, not a camouflage shade. It was used on engine cowling tips, the undersides of the nose, fuselage bands, wingtips, and code markings; period fuel systems were also marked with it this way. Color-coded identification areas of this kind are most strongly associated with the Eastern Front. In the Mediterranean, the fuselage band is usually described as white, not yellow — for a specific aircraft, always follow the scheme included with the kit.

Use and tips

• For an airbrush, it is most often sprayed straight from the bottle; depending on the nozzle and pressure, it can be further thinned with Mr.Paint's acrylic thinner or water.
• Yellow has weak coverage — apply it over a white or light gray base, otherwise you will need many coats and the shade will stay muddy.
• Spray in thin coats with short pauses so recessed lines and details do not flood.
• Mask the sharp edges of yellow areas only after the paint has cured thoroughly — fresh acrylic peels away easily.
• A brush suits small markings and touch-ups; an airbrush handles larger areas better.

Who the paint is for

For modelers of German aircraft of the Second World War finishing tactical markings, and for anyone looking for a clean modeling yellow usable with both a brush and an airbrush. It pairs well with other marking shades and with camouflage paints from the same line.

Water-thinnable acrylic — flammability and odor are significantly lower than with lacquer paints. Even so, ventilate and use respiratory protection when airbrushing; paint aerosol should not be inhaled. Protect from freezing, and shake the bottle thoroughly before use.