Glossy vs Flat (Matte)

May 2, 2008 – 7:08 am Posted in Gunpla Tutorials

Some people like their monitors Glossy, and some people like thier monitors to be matte. This applies to Gundam models as well. Some people liketheir Gundams to have a glossy look, and some like thier Gundams to have a flat (matte) look. I personally like the Gundams to have a flat look. To me, a glossy coat makes the Gundam feel real fake.

To the pictures! First we have a glossy Gundam (stock/default).

Wing Gundam Zero Glossy

Next we have the flat look.

Wing Gundam Zero Flat
Yes, I know the Gundam is incomplete. If you look at the chest in the first picture, it is much shiner than the second picture.

Next comparision! Another glossy look.
Gundam Foot Glossy

Now, for the flat look. Since it was my first time spraying it, it coat wasn’t very even.
Gundam Foot Flat

Now, let’s see them side by side.
Gundam Foot Glossy vs Flat

Glossy is shinier and flat is not as shiny. I love the flat look! But that doesn’t mean you have to like it. I hope you liked the comparison.

  1. 4 Responses to “Glossy vs Flat (Matte)”

  2. Shiny = Plastic toy :( Flat = Model replica :)

    so do you want a Toy or a Model replica? your choice ;)

    but some exception is when it is required to have a shiny metallic finish….. :)

    By Athrun on May 18, 2008

  3. actually the glossy looks fine on some models
    i wont lie about my 1/100 Master Grade Strike Rouge, I like the glossy pink.
    But if its black it usually reflects light like a mirror….
    so PRIME IT.
    if you are going for a metallic finish, some people will prime and paint on a layer of metallic paint mixed with another color.
    I myself get really lazy and just coat the pieces in metallic gray and then spray a layer of color on top. Sometime it also helps to thin the paint out when spraying over a metallic prime so that the metallic look shows through more.
    ALso you can use a blow dryer to dry it. U dont want the pieces rite next to it cuz it will displace the paint. Instead move it faraway where the air from the blow dryer is high pressured but there is still heat.

    By Larry on May 23, 2008

  4. I have problem sticking my water slide decals to the gundam plastic surface. They come off so easily ler. I only soaked them in water for 2 seconds and then applied onto the surface. U go t any idea wats the reason?

    By jerry on Jul 4, 2008

  5. Great info - keep up the great work.

    By Import from China on Jul 20, 2008

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