XF-54 Dark Sea Grey 10ml

Tamiya XF-54 Dark Sea Grey (Enamel), 10 ml

A modeling paint from Tamiya, not a kit. It is an enamel (synthetic) solvent-based paint in a bottle holding 10 ml. The designation XF means a matte shade, so once dry you get a fully matte surface with no gloss. The shade Dark Sea Grey is a dark naval gray; the manufacturer lists it as a paint suitable for British aircraft camouflage schemes.

Use

• Do not confuse it with the acrylic version of the same number — XF-54 also exists as an acrylic. This bottle is an enamel and is thinned with Tamiya X-20 (without the letter A). X-20A belongs to the acrylics.
• It goes on with a brush as well as an airbrush. For spraying the manufacturer recommends adding roughly 2 parts of thinner to 10 parts of paint and adjusting the thinning to the pressure and the nozzle.
• Enamel paints are the classic medium for washes and for picking out panel lines — they are applied heavily thinned over a cured acrylic layer and the excess is wiped off with a cotton swab moistened in X-20.
• It dries more slowly than an acrylic, which helps with brush application (the strokes flow together better). Let the coat cure properly before you continue.
• Use a gloss clear coat under decals — a matte surface would cause the base of the decal to lighten (the silvering effect).
• Do not spray lacquer (nitrocellulose) paints over an enamel; they would attack it.

Who the paint is for

For modelers of aircraft and ships who build British subjects or need a reliable dark gray, and for everyone who works with enamel paints when weathering and shading. Suitable for plastic, wood and metal.

A flammable liquid with organic solvents. It irritates the airways. Use in a well-ventilated space, wear respiratory protection (a respirator) when airbrushing and protect your eyes. Keep out of the reach of children and away from sources of ignition.