Rosco Metallix Scenic Paint - Polished Copper (5484)
Rosco Metallix Scenic Paint - Polished Copper (5484)
Rosco Metallix™ – Premium Metallic Scenic Paint (Mica-Based)
Metallix is Rosco’s dedicated metallic scenic paint range for theatre, film & TV, exhibitions and themed environments. Formulated with mica powder (not metal flakes) to create a rich metallic “read” under light — without the craft-style sparkle that many metallic paints can have.
*Many metallic paints that contain metallic pigments can tarnish/corrode when used with FR additives. Metallix is mica-based, making it the practical pathway for metallic finishes where Flamex PA may be required (always test your full system).
Best for
- Hero metallic trims (gilding, frames, mouldings) that must catch light cleanly
- Props & scenic accents that need to read from distance and on camera
- Premium metallic textures on timber, MDF, plaster, hard-coated foam builds
- Jobs where flame retardant layers may be required
Fast win: pick a base coat close to the Metallix shade, then build two thin, even coats.
Why pick Metallix over other metallic paints?
Mica powder is the edge. Many metallic paints rely on metal flakes / metallic pigments. In real scenic conditions (and especially when additives are involved) those can dull, discolour, or tarnish. Metallix uses mica to deliver a more stable, consistent metallic sheen.
- Cleaner metallic read: mica gives depth and shimmer without glittery sparkle.
- More stable finish: no metal flakes to oxidise (“rusty” surprises).
- Workshop-friendly: water-based system for easier handling and clean-up.
- FR pathway: the practical choice if you need a metallic finish and may need Flamex PA.*
Important: Always do a small test panel on your real substrate (primer/base + Metallix + any additives) before committing to a full stage/venue job.
Where Metallix is used
- Theatre & live events: trims, ornamentation, hero props
- Film & TV: set dressing, premium highlights
- Museums & exhibitions: metallic replicas and display features
- Immersive builds: architectural detail and metallic textures
- Schools & venues: believable metallic looks on common substrates
Most common Metallix projects
- Gilded trims, frames, mouldings and scenic ornamentation
- Faux brass/bronze/copper looks on timber, MDF, plaster, hard-coated foam
- Metallic accents that need to catch stage lighting cleanly
- Hero props where the finish must read on camera
Premium gold that catches light without looking “crafty”.
Clean metallic silver for faux steel and industrial finishes.
Warm copper metallic for trims, accents and hero props.
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Available colours (6 core finishes)
Metallix is available in six ready-to-use metallic finishes (Quart 0.946L & Gallon 3.79L).
- #5479 Gilders Gold
- #5480 Pyrite Gold
- #5481 Steel Silver
- #5482 Cream Pearl
- #5483 Burnished Bronze
- #5484 Polished Copper
Metallic appearance varies by substrate, base coat colour, film thickness and lighting. For perfect results, do a small sample board first.
Metallix vs Off Broadway metallics (which should you choose?)
Off Broadway is your broad scenic colour range (primarily matte) and includes some metallic shades. Metallix is a dedicated premium metallic system built specifically for metallic “read”, stability, and FR pathway compatibility.
| Decision point | Choose Metallix | Choose Off Broadway metallic shades |
|---|---|---|
| Metallic finish is a hero feature | When the metallic needs to read “like metal” under stage/camera light | When you just need metallic accents within a broader scenic palette |
| Finish stability | Mica-based (no metal flakes) helps keep the look consistent | Great general scenic performance; metallic effect depends on shade/system |
| Flame retardant workflow* | Preferred starting point for metallic finishes if Flamex PA may be required | Test required; avoid assumptions for metallic pigments in FR workflows |
*Always test your exact paint/additive/substrate system before committing to a full stage or venue job.
▼ How to apply Metallix (simple, practical)
- Prime first: use a quality water-based primer and let it fully dry. Choose a base coat close to your Metallix shade for best hide.
- Stir well: metallic pigments settle — stir until uniform before and during use.
- Apply thin coats: brush, roll, or spray in smooth, even passes (avoid flooding heavy wet coats).
- Dry / recoat: typical dry time is around 4 hours; if a second coat is desired allow 6–8 hours (conditions dependent).
- Finish building: add glazes/washes for ageing/patina effects as needed (test compatibility first).
Metallics show tool marks more than matte paints. For the smoothest finish, use a soft brush, fine foam roller, or spray.
▼ Spraying Metallix (quick notes)
- Use: conventional or HVLP cup gun.
- Avoid: airless spray systems (not recommended).
- Tip: thin only if needed, and test first — over-thinning can reduce hide/metallic strength.
If you tell us your sprayer model, we can suggest a sensible starting setup for a test panel.
▼ Flamex PA + metallic paints (what you need to know)
Flamex PA is designed for water-based paint layers, but metallic paints that contain metallic pigments can be unpredictable when additives are involved. Metallix is mica-based (no metal flakes), making it the practical option when you need a metallic finish and may need a Flamex PA pathway.
Always test your full system (substrate + primer/base + paint + additive) and confirm compliance requirements for your venue/project.
Technical information (quick reference)
Finish
Satin / reflective metallic sheen
System
Water-based scenic paint (vinyl acrylic)
Application
Brush, roller, conventional/HVLP spray
Coverage (planning)
Approx. 27–37 m² per gallon (varies by coats/substrate)
Dry time (typical)
~4 hours (conditions dependent)
Recoat (typical)
6–8 hours (conditions dependent)
Clean-up
Soap + warm water (clean promptly)
Sizes
Quart (0.946L) & Gallon (3.79L)
FR option
Flamex PA pathway* (test first)
For performance-critical installs (venues, schools, public spaces), do a small test panel first and confirm your full specification with CFATS.
Metallix guide + next steps
Use the CFATS guide for technique tips, base coat recommendations, and FAQs — then choose your colour and size.
Need help? Tell us your substrate + indoor/outdoor + whether FR compliance is required — we’ll recommend the safest system.
Cautions & disclaimers
- Always do a test panel on your real substrate (primer/base + Metallix + any additives) before committing to the full job.
- Use adequate ventilation; avoid ingestion and eye contact; keep out of reach of children.
- Drying time varies with temperature, airflow and humidity. Avoid application outside recommended conditions.
- If flame retardancy is required: follow Rosco guidance, maintain correct film build, and verify compliance requirements for your venue/project.
Rosco disclaimer: All technical data, recommendations and service are accurate to the best of our knowledge. Rosco assumes no responsibility for results obtained or damage incurred from use since method of application and use are beyond our control.
