Ral Partha

Paints

Reviewed by Lance McKenzie

Recently, Ral Partha has released an excellent array of quality acrylic paints for the figures painter. 19 shades, 4 metallics, and a white primer are available. To complete the line an excellent flat white spray primer is available, and a clear matte sealer. A brush on white primer is also included. The color selection is very good and comprises those necessary to provide adequate variety.

The only color I would like to see added is a good sky blue, although a very nice turquoise is in the line, and makes a good substitute. The metallics coat well, and the colors hold up well to thinning for wash methods. Since they are acrylics they exude no strong noxious odors, and clean up easily with water. They are packed in soft plastic 3/4 ounce bottles with caps which provide an effective seal. Also, the label is on the cap, thus providing an unobstructed view of the paint through the bottle. At $.99 a bottle, they are also more economical than some other paint lines out, and the smaller bottle is more handy.

Ral Partha has also released a set of three quality brushes; a flat #2 (suitable for dry brushing), a #0, and a #5/0. All are highly recommended.

An interesting part of the new paint line is Dragonscale creams. Even though fantasy oriented, I have found this set of six metallic rub-on creams is suitable for highlighting metal and Aztec plumage. Because they are wax based, Dragonscale creams should be applied last and must be coated with a sealer. Special sponge applicators are available. These applicators come in handy when using rub-off techniques. The clear matte sealer will prevent wear to the painted surface and dries to a realistic dull sheen. The entire set of paints and brushes are not that expensive and are highly recommended as a paint set for beginners, or as supplemental colors for the veteran painter.

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