What's your favorite paint mix for Soviet Green. I've been trying to get that faded/lighter green color using Tamiya paints but I just can seem to get it right.

I'm look to replicate the color on this model:



Rob Calandriello

Vallejo have a nice Russian green straight from the bottle. For tamiya paints I usually use JA green (XF-13). In the long run, I never get too hung up on the base coat, as so many weathering steps follow.

Hey Rob, I like to use acrylic paint. I often use the store brand or equivalent. For me the benefits are that it is cheap, readily available ( no hobby stores close to me), semi transparent, water mixing and clean up, easy to control paint consistency. There are differences to spraying and brushing. spraying typically requires higher pressures, thinner paint and coats also a different nozzle on airbrush. This is the method I prefer, I realize that other people prefer other methods. I like to experiment with new methods and this is a cheap way to learn alot. That being said, I typically make up a color chart on a piece of copy paper with varying shades ( with the color green this could be different amounts of yellow or white for example) let this dry for at least an hour so you can get a better feel for the color. Then I compare the "color chips" to photographs ( keep in mind color variation, and wear as well as light difference and reflection) then apply.Also once you have the color on the vehicle and let dry, if you feel that it needs to change,apply another shade. This also helps to break up the monotone and give the paint job "life". Use PRIMER as first step. Experiment until you are happy. This is just a method I use. - Bobby

P.S. Rob, your picture appears to have a green that is on the light side ( alot of white) and not much yellow ( russian green has alot of yellow in some shades ) also once you get this light green this green in your pic looks like it has alot of blue to add also. If you decide to mix your own color this is what I would suggest as a starting point. Anyhow good luck. - Bobby

Rob,

One I like using Tamiya colours is 2/3 XF-73 and 1/3 XF-4. It gives a really good base green you can nuance to whatever shade you like.