Translucent acrylic paint X-27, Red

Tamiya X-27 Translucent Red: Colour, Transparency, and Control in Every Layer

The Tamiya X range of acrylic paints includes glossy, matte, and translucent finishes designed for modellers seeking precision and repeatability. The X-27 Translucent Red is one of the most versatile colours in the series: its formulation allows for colour layers with controlled transparency, ideal for light effects, glass, lenses, or glazes over already painted surfaces.

Main Features

• Finish Type: translucent, allowing the background or previous layers to be appreciated.
• Base: water-soluble acrylic resin.
• Format: 10 ml jar.
• Application: brush and airbrush.

Applications

The X-27 is particularly useful in projects where we need the colour to add tone without completely obscuring what is underneath. Some common uses include:

• Simulation of pilot glass in static models of cars, planes, or motorcycles.
• Light effects in figures and dioramas: gems, jewellery, eyes of fantastical creatures.
• Reddish glazes over metallics or grey bases to enrich the base colour.
• Rear lights in scale cars and slot cars.

Compatibility

The Tamiya X-27 acrylic paint adheres well to the most common materials in modelling:

• Styrene plastic (the most common in box models).
• Polyurethane resin.
• Polystyrene foam.
• Prepared wood.
• Previously painted surfaces with compatible acrylics.

It is fully mixable with the rest of the Tamiya acrylic range, allowing for precise adjustments to both tone and degree of transparency.

Application Tips

To achieve the best results, keep the following in mind:

• Brush: work with thin layers and allow to dry between coats. Being translucent, the colour intensity increases with each pass, providing very precise control over the final result.
• Airbrush: always dilute with Tamiya acrylic thinner (X-20A or similar). A dilution of 1:1 to 1:1.5 usually works well for glazes. Adjust the pressure according to the desired effect.
• Surface: a clean and slightly rough base improves adhesion. If working on a very smooth surface, a prior coat of primer facilitates grip.
• Cleaning: clean the airbrush with water or acrylic thinner immediately after use to prevent the paint from drying in the siphon or needle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use X-27 directly on plastic without priming?

Yes, although on very smooth surfaces or on virgin plastic without any prior treatment, adhesion may be lower. For projects where durability matters — such as slot cars or frequently handled figures — we recommend a prior coat of acrylic primer.

What thinner should I use for the airbrush?

Tamiya recommends using their own acrylic thinners (X-20A being the most common) to ensure proper flow and avoid drying issues on the needle. It is not advisable to use tap water as the sole thinner for airbrush, as it may affect flow and results.

Can X-27 be mixed with other Tamiya acrylics?

Yes, it is completely miscible with the entire Tamiya acrylic range. Mixing X-27 with an opaque red or with white, for example, allows for custom tones with varying degrees of coverage.

Is it suitable for simulating the rear lights of a scale car?

It is one of its most popular uses precisely for that reason. When applied over a silver or white base, X-27 convincingly reproduces the effect of translucent red plastic of rear optics.

How much coverage does a 10 ml jar provide?

It depends on the dilution and application method, but under normal modelling conditions — thin layers with brush or airbrush — a 10 ml jar is sufficient for several standard-sized projects.

Tamiya X-27 translucent red acrylic paint — 10 ml jar, water-based formula ideal for brush and airbrush. Perfect for scale model car tail lights, transparent effects on figures and dioramas, and colour glazing over metallic bases. Compatible with styrene, polyurethane resin, polystyrene foam, and wood. Fully mixable with the complete Tamiya acrylic range. A staple reference for scale modellers working on static kits, slot car bodies, and miniature painting projects.