How to Paint a Third Party MGEX Strike Freedom Midnight Coating

Quick Answer

To paint a third party MGEX Strike Freedom Midnight Coating kit, start by disassembling and cleaning parts, then apply primer, paint in thin coats, and finish with a protective topcoat. Pay extra attention to the midnight coating finish to preserve its depth.

Step-by-Step Painting Process

1. Disassemble and Clean: Break down the kit into individual parts. Remove all existing stickers and decals. Wash parts in warm soapy water to remove mold release agents. Rinse and let dry completely. Skipping the wash can cause paint to bead up and peel later.
2. Sand and Prep Surfaces: Lightly sand all parts with fine grit sandpaper (800-1000) to create a rough surface for paint adhesion. Pay extra attention to the midnight coating parts if you plan to repaint them. Wipe off dust with a tack cloth. Over-sanding can remove detail, so work gently.
3. Apply Primer: Spray a thin, even coat of primer. Use a gray primer for most parts, but consider a dark primer under the midnight coating to maintain depth. Let it cure fully. Primer is essential for paint to stick and for colors to pop.
4. Paint in Thin Coats: Apply your chosen colors in multiple thin coats, allowing each to dry. For a midnight coating effect, use a dark base with a metallic or pearl topcoat. Avoid thick layers that can obscure details. Thin coats prevent runs and preserve panel lines.
5. Apply Decals and Stickers: After the paint has cured, apply the included water slides and etched sheet stickers. Use a decal softener for a smooth fit. For the pet stickers on the beam shield, apply them after the final clear coat to avoid clouding. Decals adhere best on a smooth, glossy surface.
6. Seal with Topcoat: Spray a clear topcoat to protect the paint and decals. Choose a gloss topcoat for a shiny midnight look, or a matte topcoat for a more subdued finish. Apply in thin coats to avoid frosting. Topcoat is the final step that locks in your work and prevents scratches.

Product Facts

• Pianxin Model 1/100 MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam Midnight Coating Version Model kit (Third Party, Not Original Bandai Kit): This is a third party kit, not an original Bandai product, and includes ABS materials, beam rifles, beam sabers, hand assembly types, humanoid figures, a movable base, stickers, water slides, and etched sheet stickers. The included etched sheet stickers and water slides can be applied after painting to add fine details, but you must protect them with a clear coat to prevent peeling.