NMM (Non-Metallic Metal) vs. Metallic Paints: What to choose for miniature painting?

You're looking at a new, precise print from printallica.eu and wondering how to tackle a knight's armor or a sword blade? This is one of the oldest dilemmas in the world of miniature painting: TMM or NMM? In this article, we'll break down both techniques. You'll learn when to opt for the classic shimmer of metallics and when to dedicate hours to mastering the illusion of light, making your model look like it's straight from a magazine cover.

What is TMM (True Metallic Metal)?

TMM is painting metal using paints that contain microscopic particles of metal or mica. These physically reflect ambient light, creating a natural luster.

• Pros: Speed, ease of shading with washes, and an authentic look in natural light.
• Who it's for: Ideal for painting "tabletop standard" armies, where a consistent effect and time efficiency are key.

What is NMM (Non-Metallic Metal)?

NMM is a technique that involves painting metal using regular, matte paints (grays, blues, yellows). The painter must "trick" the viewer's eye by manually applying light reflections and deep shadows where they theoretically should be.

• Pros: Full control over the "drama" of the model, incredible effect in photos, prestigious look (display quality).
• Who it's for: For art painting enthusiasts, competition participants, and those painting single hero models in miniature painting.

Comparison: NMM vs. Metallic Paints (TMM)

Feature	Metallic Paints (TMM)	Non-Metallic Metal (NMM)
Execution Time	Fast	Very Slow
Difficulty Level	Beginner / Intermediate	Advanced
Light Control	Depends on room lighting	Depends on the painter's brush
Effect in Photos	Can be flat or chaotic	Always epic and controlled
Application	Wargaming armies	Collector's / Competition Models

When to choose a specific technique?

Choose metallic paints (TMM) if:

1. You're painting a unit of 20-40 figures: Your goal is to field an army for a weekend game. TMM combined with drybrush or Contrast method yields great results in record time.
2. You value physical realism: You like when the model shimmers differently from every viewing angle.
3. You're just starting: Metallics are forgiving and easy to correct.

Choose the NMM technique if:

1. You want to develop your skills: Learning NMM is the best lesson in light theory and smooth transitions (blending).
2. You're painting a "display" model: Exceptional models from printallica.eu, meant to be admired in a showcase, deserve an artistic approach.
3. You're building a portfolio: We know that nothing attracts the attention of potential clients and followers like perfectly rendered "chrome" or "gold" painted with matte paints.

How to combine both worlds?

You don't have to choose just one path. An increasingly popular technique is Metallic Glazing. It involves painting the base with metallic paint and then shading it with matte glazes or Contrast paints. This gives you the depth characteristic of NMM while retaining the physical shine of TMM.

Summary

Regardless of the chosen technique, the key to success is a high-quality model. The details on printallica.eu prints are so sharp that the edges themselves "suggest" where to apply light — whether with a metallic brush or a precise NMM stroke.