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Imperial Blue is an acrylic paint from the AK Interactive Standard range, formulated with high pigmentation to achieve solid coverage in just a few coats. Its water-based formula makes cleaning and mixing with other colours from the same range easy, and its satin-matte finish makes it a versatile option for both brush and airbrush. Available at Feroca, official distributor of AK Interactive in Spain.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Reference | AK11180 |
| Colour | Imperial Blue |
| Range | Standard |
| Volume | 17 ml |
| Base | Water-based acrylic |
| Finish | Satin / Matte |
| Application | Brush and airbrush |
What it is used for
Imperial Blue is an intense and deep blue, useful in a wide variety of modelling and creative painting projects. Its shade covers everything from historical uniforms to science fiction finishes, including naval or fantasy equipment.
- Painting scale military, naval or armoured vehicles with uniforms or details in blue.
- Wargame miniatures: base coats, shading and highlight layers on infantry, cavalry or hero figures.
- Dioramas: night skies, deep waters, shadows on surfaces or atmospheric effects.
- Cosplay and props: painting foam, resin or plastic pieces with a uniform finish.
- Aircraft or spaceship models with liveries in blue tones.
- SFX projects and miniature art where a rich, well-covering blue is required.
How to use it
- Surface preparation: apply a suitable primer to the piece. For dark colours like Imperial Blue, a black or dark grey primer enhances the depth of the colour.
- Shaking: shake the bottle well for at least 30 seconds before opening. The high pigmentation of the Standard range can cause settling if the bottle has been left to stand.
- Brush application: apply in thin, even coats. Two or three coats will give you solid coverage. Allow to dry between coats.
- Airbrush application: thin with distilled water or a water-based acrylic thinner until the desired viscosity is achieved. Recommended pressure between 15 and 20 PSI as a starting point.
- Drying: touch-dry time is approximately 15–30 minutes depending on ambient temperature and humidity. For full cure, wait several hours before applying varnishes or washes.
- Cleaning: clean brushes and airbrush with warm water while the paint is still fresh. If the paint has dried, use a specific acrylic cleaner.
Usage tips
Controlling the final finish
Imperial Blue has a satin-matte finish depending on the number of coats and the dilution used. If you need a completely matte finish for applying pigment powder or pastel techniques, apply a matte varnish once the paint is dry. To protect the work and unify the finish before washes or filters, an intermediate satin varnish helps products flow better over the surface.
Mixing and transitions
Imperial Blue mixes well with other colours from the AK Interactive Standard range. To lighten the tone without losing saturation, add white in small proportions. To darken and create deep shadows, mix with blacks or darker blues from the same range. Avoid mixing directly with excess water, as this can reduce adhesion and pigmentation.
Storing the bottle
Close the bottle tightly after each use and store it upright in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If the paint thickens over time, add a few drops of distilled water and shake before use. Do not use tap water, as minerals can alter the formulation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to thin the paint before using it with an airbrush?
Yes, for airbrush use it is recommended to thin Imperial Blue with distilled water or a water-based acrylic thinner. The exact dilution depends on your airbrush and working pressure, but a common starting ratio is between 10% and 20% thinner relative to the volume of paint.
Can it be used directly on plastic without a primer?
Although it is possible to apply Imperial Blue directly onto plastic, using a primer significantly improves adhesion and the durability of the finish. For scale models and miniatures, it is always recommended to prime before applying the colour coat.
Is it suitable for use on wargame miniatures?
Yes. Imperial Blue is ideal for wargame miniatures, both as a base coat and for highlight layers and flat colour areas. Its high pigmentation ensures good coverage on small surfaces with just a few passes.
How long does it take to dry between coats?
Under normal temperature and humidity conditions, Imperial Blue is touch-dry in approximately 15–30 minutes. To safely apply a second coat, wait at least that amount of time. For wet-on-wet techniques, work quickly before the first coat loses its surface moisture.
Can it be applied on foam or resin for cosplay?
Yes. Imperial Blue works well on foam, resin and other materials used in cosplay, as long as the surface is clean and properly sealed or primed. On foam, first apply a flexible sealer to prevent the paint from cracking with the movement of the material.
Where can I buy this paint in Spain?
Imperial Blue (AK11180) is available at Feroca, official distributor of AK Interactive in Spain. You can purchase it directly from the Feroca online store with shipping across the mainland.
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