Alumaluster is a professional chrome paint in pint format (473 ml) that lets you achieve a polished aluminium mirror finish applied directly with a standard airbrush or spray gun. Its resin-based system with reflective pigments provides far superior adhesion and coverage compared to other chrome paints on the market, with results that in many cases require no topcoat.
Technical specifications
Parameter
Value
Format
473 ml (16 oz / Pint)
Product type
Resin-based chrome paint with reflective pigments
Application method
Airbrush or standard spray gun
Finish
Reflective Chrome — polished aluminium mirror
Recommended application surface
Gloss black (best result)
Topcoat
Optional depending on application
Use
Professional / Semi-professional
What it is used for
Alumaluster is designed for projects that require a high-quality chrome metallic finish on rigid or semi-rigid surfaces. It is especially popular in special effects, character work, prop making, and the customisation of industrial or decorative parts.
Chrome finish on helmets, armour and props for cosplay and special effects
Chroming of 3D-printed parts, resin or polyurethane castings
Decorative chrome finishes on sculptures, scale models and prototypes
Customisation of automotive, motorcycle and modelling parts
Chrome effects on fibreglass and composite surfaces
Theatrical and cinematic finishes on prop elements
How to use it
Prepare the surface: make sure it is clean, dry and free of dust, grease or release agent residue. The surface must be completely smooth to achieve the best mirror effect.
Apply a gloss black base: to maximise the mirror effect, first apply a gloss black paint or work directly on a part made from gloss black resin. This step is essential for the final result.
Let the base cure: wait until the black paint is completely dry and hard before continuing.
Prepare the equipment: load Alumaluster into the airbrush or spray gun cup. Do not thin without first testing viscosity with your specific equipment.
Apply in thin coats: spray at a uniform distance, applying thin, overlapping coats. Avoid building up product in a single pass.
Allow to dry between coats: wait the necessary time between coats until you achieve the desired coverage and reflectivity.
Assess the need for a topcoat: in many applications, Alumaluster does not require a topcoat. If the part will be subject to abrasion or outdoor exposure, apply a flexible sealing lacquer such as Imperiflex 640 to protect and preserve the finish.
Professional use notice: Alumaluster contains solvents and resins that require adequate ventilation during application. Always use a respirator with an organic vapour filter, nitrile gloves and eye protection. Consult the SAFETY DATA SHEET before using the product. Keep away from heat sources and ignition.
Usage tips
The gloss black base is everything
The mirror finish of Alumaluster depends directly on the quality of the surface it is applied to. A perfectly smooth, gloss black base multiplies the reflective effect. Any imperfection, pore or texture in the base will be visible in the final finish. If you are working with resin, consider using a black or black-pigmented formulation for the surface layer of the mould.
Adjust airbrush pressure and distance
With an airbrush, work at low-to-medium pressures and maintain a constant distance from the surface. Excessive pressure or too short a distance can cause orange-peel effects or product build-up. Always do a test on a sacrificial surface before moving on to the final part. If using a spray gun, finer and more uniform spray patterns give better results.
Sealing with Imperiflex 640 for functional use
If the finished part will be in contact with the body, exposed to UV light or subject to abrasion, protect the finish with Imperiflex 640, the flexible gloss lacquer designed to work alongside Alumaluster. Apply it in thin coats to avoid losing the mirror effect. For static props or indoor decorative pieces, the topcoat can be omitted.
Frequently asked questions
Is it necessary to seal the chrome paint after application?
Not always. Alumaluster is formulated with a resin system that in many cases allows the finish to be left without a final protective coat. However, if the part will be subject to abrasion, skin contact, outdoor exposure or UV light, it is recommended to apply a gloss finishing lacquer such as Imperiflex 640 to protect the chrome finish.
What type of spray equipment do I need?
Alumaluster is compatible with dual-action airbrushes and standard low- and high-pressure spray guns (HVLP). For fine detail work, an airbrush offers greater control. For large parts, an HVLP gun reduces application time. Always test viscosity and equipment settings on a test surface before applying to the final piece.
What materials can I apply this chrome paint to?
Alumaluster adheres well to polyurethane and epoxy resins, 3D-printed parts (PLA, ABS, PETG), fibreglass, composite, metal surfaces and other properly prepared rigid or semi-rigid substrates. The key is that the surface is clean, free of porosity and coated with a gloss black base to achieve the optimum mirror effect.
How much product do I need to cover a part?
Coverage depends on the application equipment, spray distance and number of coats. For medium-sized projects such as a helmet or a cosplay armour piece, the 473 ml (Pint) format is usually sufficient to complete several parts with multiple coats. If you have a larger project, consider the 946 ml Quart format or the 236 ml format for preliminary tests.
Can I use this paint on flexible surfaces?
Alumaluster is formulated primarily for rigid surfaces. On flexible materials, the finish may crack when the part is bent or deformed. If you need the chrome effect on surfaces with some flexibility, always use Imperiflex 640 as a topcoat, as it adds elasticity to the system and improves the durability of the finish.
Does the surface need to be sanded or prepared before application?
Yes. Surface preparation is critical to the final result. Sand, fill imperfections, prime and apply the gloss black base before applying Alumaluster. Any texture, pore or scratch in the base will be reflected and amplified in the chrome finish. Careful preparation is the difference between a professional result and a mediocre one.
How does the Pint format differ from the other available sizes?
The Pint format (473 ml) is the mid-range size in the Alumaluster line. It is ideal for medium-sized projects or when you already know the product and want enough quantity to complete a job without running short. For smaller projects or initial tests, the 100 ml format or the 236 ml format are more economical options. For production runs or continuous use, the 946 ml Quart reduces the cost per ml.
Video tutorials
Painting an Ironman piggy bank helmet / pintando un casco de ironman
#MAKERWEEKND - MASTERCLASS @HenryCreations "Postprocesado y pintura avanzada"
LIVE PAINTING WORKSHOP #2. With Off Earth. Black Widow (2021) Batons and Mjolnir!
Alumaluster 8oz (236ml): polished aluminium chrome paint for airbrush or spray gun. Superior reflective finish, high adhesion, no mandatory sealing coat required.
Alumaluster 32oz (946ml): sprayable chrome paint with mirror-like reflective finish. Applicable with airbrush or standard spray gun over a gloss black base coat.
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