Help with Tamiya TS-58

[Anderson_15_]

I just purchased the Tamiya spray can, light blue pearl TS-58. I've never painted with pearls and need some help with primers. I'm using the Tamiya pearl clear coat over it too. If anyone could help me get a good primer it would be very helpful. Last thing, although I like the color, I would prefer it a bit darker. If there's a primer color that could help with that is like to know what it is. Thanks

[charlie8575]

Grab some sprue and try the following:

1. White primer.

2. Gray primer.

3. Tamiya Dark blue, blue or French Blue spray paint, which might work well under the semi-transparent pearl blue.

Try those and see which you like the best.

Charlie Larkin

[Dave Van]

I might add to Charlies good suggestions a gold under coat. I like the spoon test too......works for me. 

[Speedfreak]

Get some plastic spoons and test. The darker the primer the darker the Light Blue Pearl will be. As Dave mentioned you can also use a color, (gold, silver etc,..) between the primer and color coat. Also with every additional color coat the color will darken somewhat. I love testing new colors, it's the only way you know for sure what you're going to get.   

Edited July 24, 2015 by Speedfreak

[Cato]

Always consider the brand of the color coats you're using as the first choice for primers. Tamiyas are excellent.

Test others brands for a preference against Tamiyas. Spoons work well and are cheap.

[twopaws]

I too use the old spoon test, besides providing a great couple of surfaces, you can also write the combos you are trying on the handle.