What is a holographic paint effect?

Holographic Paint is a special-effect airbrush paint designed to create a striking rainbow reflection that changes depending on the angle of the light and the position of the painted surface. Its formula contains extremely fine reflective microparticles capable of catching different wavelengths of light, producing a vibrant multicoloured effect with iridescent, metallic and holographic characteristics.

Unlike a conventional metallic color, which normally reflects one dominant tone, holographic paint produces multiple colors across the visible spectrum. As the model or light source moves, different shades become visible across the surface, creating an effect that can range from subtle rainbow reflections to an intense metallic holographic finish.

This type of holographic color is particularly useful for scale models, miniatures, fantasy and science-fiction vehicles, armour, weapons, robots, decorative pieces and other hobby projects where a changing reflective surface is desired. It can also be used to create futuristic panels, magical effects, energy surfaces, alien materials and decorative details that would be difficult to reproduce with standard metallic paints.

The final appearance depends greatly on the base color underneath. For the strongest and cleanest holographic reflection, we recommend applying the paint over a smooth gloss base coat. Dark gloss colors can create a deeper and more dramatic holographic appearance, while lighter bases can produce brighter and more delicate reflections. Experimenting with different base colors is an easy way to obtain variations from the same bottle of holo paint.

Application thickness also affects the result. A thin and controlled coat allows the reflective microparticles to remain visually separated, making the rainbow effect particularly noticeable when the surface catches the light. Additional coats increase coverage and strengthen the metallic appearance. However, applying too many layers can reduce the contrast between the different reflections and make the finish appear more metallic than holographic.

For this reason, the best results are normally obtained by gradually building up the effect rather than trying to achieve complete coverage immediately. Apply light coats, allow the surface to settle between passes, and inspect the model under a direct light source. Once the desired balance between transparency, metallic coverage, and rainbow reflection has been achieved, no additional coats are necessary.

After application, the model can be protected with a varnish. A gloss varnish is recommended when the objective is to preserve or enhance the reflective holographic effect. Gloss surfaces allow more direct reflections to reach the metallic microparticles, increasing the visibility of the rainbow colors.

Matt varnish produces the opposite result. Because a matt surface diffuses incoming light, it considerably reduces the brilliance and color-changing appearance of the glitter particles. This can sometimes be useful when a softer effect is desired, but it is not recommended when maximum holographic intensity is the objective.

Although the reflective appearance may remind some painters of very fine glitter, the visual effect is more refined and integrated into the painted surface. Instead of producing large individual sparkling points, the microparticles create numerous small reflections that change color according to the viewing angle. This makes the finish particularly suitable for miniatures and scale modelling, where oversized reflective particles could look unrealistic.

Holographic paint can also be used selectively rather than covering an entire model. Small details can create strong visual contrast against matt or conventional metallic surfaces. Visors, armour panels, weapon components, crystals, magical objects, vehicle details, and technological elements can become focal points when painted with this effect.

Another creative option is combining it with transparent colors or additional airbrush effects. Because the underlying color influences the final appearance, painters can experiment with different combinations to create customised finishes. The same bottle can therefore generate a wide variety of visual results depending on the base color, number of coats and final varnish.

The product contains 17 ml of Holographic Paint and is supplied ready for airbrush use. Shake thoroughly before painting so that the reflective microparticles are completely mixed throughout the formula.

How to paint a holographic effect?

To paint a holographic effect, begin with a smooth gloss base coat. You usually won't need to dilute this paint, since it's already pre-diluted for airbrushing, but if necessary, use ethyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). The choice of base color will influence the final result, so black, dark, metallic shades and lighter gloss colours can all produce different variations.

Once the acrylic primer is completely dry, apply the holographic paint through an airbrush using light, controlled passes. Avoid trying to create a completely opaque layer immediately. The holographic reflection is often more visible when the microparticles are distributed in thin layers.

Check the surface under direct light between coats. If a stronger metallic appearance is required, apply another light layer. Stop when the balance between rainbow reflection and metallic coverage looks right, as excessive paint can gradually reduce the effect of the finish. A final gloss varnish can increase brilliance and help protect the painted surface.

What base colour is best for holo paint?

There is no single compulsory base color for holo paint, because changing the color underneath is one of the easiest ways to customise the final effect. A glossy dark base generally creates strong contrast and makes the rainbow reflections particularly easy to see. Black is therefore a popular option for an intense appearance. Other gloss colors can create completely different effects while still allowing the holographic particles to reflect light.

Whatever color is selected, a smooth glossy surface is recommended. Surface imperfections, rough primer, or very matt finishes can scatter light and reduce the clarity of the holographic reflections.

For maximum intensity, finish the project with gloss varnish. If a more subdued appearance is required, satin or matt finishes can reduce the reflection, although they will also decrease the characteristic rainbow effect.