Cleaning up:
The metal is straight from the mould with a nominal amount of cleaning - you might find a tiny line where the mould has joined or maybe a tiny slither of metal that needs snapping off. Most people do not bother with the cleaning but if you are like me you may want to remove any "flashing" - tiny metal files are handy as is normal sandpaper. You can purchase emery files designed for metal model (online)
Painting
I find it is always best to prime the metal with metal promer before painting as this provide more "grip" for the paint. My preference is to spray because the finish is smoother and cleaner but you could use acrylic paints.
Polishing
You will be please to know the all the metal items can be polished to a lovely bright sheen. You will need something slightly abrasive such as wet and dry paper or a brass abrasive wheel. After polishing a wipe with black wax gives more defination.
Gilt
Gold leaf can be applied directly to the surface. First paint any areas you want to gild with gold size (acrylic for easy use), allow to go tacky and then gild the surface with dutch metal (an imitation gold leaf).
Alternatively try using a gilt paint such as liberon or bristol paint. I find the gilt waxes can oxidise and go green unless they are sealed.
Aging
If you wish to age your paint finish try one of these two methods:
- Annie sloane makes a wonderful dark brown wax which works well over acrylics and emulsions. Paint it on and wipe it off.
- Raw umber is a brilliant colour for aging (use acrylic for fast drying) - paint on and wipe off- to increase the drying time add a small amount of scumble glaze to the paint.
