Paint Mixers

Gerry Leone

Duration: 3 mins

Description
Discussions

In this video, Master Modeler Gerry Leone demonstrates the use of a paint mixer. Contrary to popular belief, modeling experts like Gerry say that shaking a jar of paint is not the best way to disperse the pigment. This method of mixing disperses the pigments unevenly and gets paint on the lid of the jar, which can harden and make the jar difficult to open later on.

The best way to disperse the pigment evenly and thoroughly is with a paint mixer. Badger Air-Brush Co. makes a hand-held, battery-operated paint mixer with a small mixing head that turns very quickly. It runs on two AA batteries and costs between ten and fifteen dollars at most hobby stores or by mail order. One downside to a paint mixer is that if it is left on just a bit too long as it is being pulled out of the paint, it can splatter. Gerry solves this problem by using a plastic juice bottle with the bottom cut off to create a sort of funnel that fits over the neck of the paint jar while mixing, catching all the splatters.

Gerry demonstrates on paint that has settled and been left unmixed. He shows how, in just ten to thirty seconds with the paint mixer, the pigment is thoroughly dispersed. For more tips and techniques like painting backdrops for your layout, browse our collection of helpful videos and articles.