Splash Gel - Spectral Blue

Splash Gel Spectral Blue, a colored effect gel

What it is

This is neither a paint for covering surfaces nor a glue, but a thick colored gel in the shade named Spectral Blue. It is applied straight from the pot and holds its shape once applied, so droplets, splashes, splatter marks and other raised effects can be shaped from it that ordinary liquid paint would not hold.

Use

• apply it with a spatula, a toothpick or an older brush, and do not ruin a new brush on the gel
• try the effect first on a piece of scrap plastic
• work in small amounts; a thick layer dries considerably longer than a thin one
• until the gel is dry it smears easily, so give it time
• the finished effect can be fine-tuned by stippling paint or with a spot of varnish
• close the pot carefully after work so that the contents do not dry out

Who it is for

For modelers who build bases, dioramas and scenic settings and want to bring a strong cool colored accent into them. It comes into its own where the effect is meant to stand proud of the surface and catch the light, not just lie flat. The shade is rich, so it suits figures and fantasy scenes rather than realistic historical equipment, where a more muted palette is used.

What to expect and what not to

The gel is no substitute for paint or varnish. It will not cover an area, it will not even out a shade and it cannot be sprayed; the point of it is that it stays standing once applied and forms relief. A thicker droplet dries much longer than a thin layer, and until it dries it is vulnerable: a careless touch smears the effect, and repairing it tends to be more work than making it again. Test the covering power, the final transparency and the degree of gloss beforehand on a sample on a scrap piece of plastic.

The volume of the package and the instructions for safe work are stated on the packaging. Keep out of the reach of children, ventilate while working and do not let the gel dry on a brush.