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NMM vs Traditional Metallic Painting: Which Technique is Right for You?

March 25, 2026 • Techniques

The Great Metallic Debate

One of the most common questions I get is: "Should I learn NMM or stick with metallic paints?" The answer, like most things in miniature painting, is: it depends.

What is NMM?

Non-Metallic Metal (NMM) is a technique where you paint metallic surfaces using regular matte paints. By carefully placing highlights and shadows, you create the illusion of reflective metal without any actual metallic particles.

Traditional Metallics

Metallic paints contain actual metal flakes that reflect light. Brands like Vallejo Metal Color, Scale75 Metal & Alchemy, and Citadel's metallic range fall into this category.

Pros and Cons

NMM Advantages:

  • Photography: NMM always looks perfect in photos
  • Control: You decide exactly where highlights go
  • Style: Can achieve stylized, artistic effects
  • No particles: Won't clog airbrushes or leave texture

NMM Disadvantages:

  • Time: Takes 5-10x longer than metallics
  • Skill required: Steep learning curve
  • Viewing angle: Only looks right from one angle
  • Large surfaces: Extremely difficult on vehicles

Metallic Paint Advantages:

  • Speed: Quick and efficient
  • Realistic: Actually reflects light
  • Forgiving: Easier for beginners
  • All angles: Looks good from every viewing angle

Metallic Paint Disadvantages:

  • Photography: Can look flat in photos
  • Texture: Can leave grainy finish if not thinned
  • Limited control: Highlights depend on actual light

My Recommendation

For display pieces and competition models, learn NMM. For army painting and gaming pieces, use metallics. Many pro painters actually combine both techniques - using metallics as a base and adding NMM-style highlights.

Best Paints for Each

For NMM:

  • Base: Vallejo Model Color German Grey (70.995)
  • Mid-tone: Vallejo Model Color Neutral Grey (70.992)
  • Highlight: Any off-white (avoid pure white)
  • Shadows: Scale75 Black (SC-00)

For Traditional Metallics:

  • Silver: Vallejo Metal Color Aluminum (77.701)
  • Gold: Scale75 Decayed Metal (SC-65)
  • Copper: Vallejo Model Color Copper (70.999)
  • Bronze: Citadel Balthasar Gold

Use Minimatch to find alternatives if these specific paints aren't available in your area.

Final Thoughts

Don't feel pressured to choose one technique over the other. Both have their place in your painting arsenal. Start with metallics to build confidence, then experiment with NMM when you're ready for a challenge.

Remember: the best technique is the one that gives you the results you want in the time you have available.