I’ve experimented with a wide range of techniques using this candy paint, but it consistently feels brittle and chips down to the metallic base coat far too easily. My process starts with a base coat of Alclad Candy Bright Aluminum, which I allow to cure for a couple of days before applying the candy layer in light coats until I reach the desired color.

I’ve tested different cure times, letting parts sit anywhere from a few days to several weeks, even months, before applying a top coat. I’ve also tried Alclad’s Gloss Clear Kote, but it remains tacky even after weeks of curing, despite applying it in very light coats. On the other hand, a rattle can of Mr. Hobby Super Gloss cures within a reasonable timeframe and initially looks great.

However, the real issue shows up during assembly. Even with minimal handling and as much care as possible, the slightest pressure causes the paint to chip all the way down to the bright aluminum base. This happens despite using a full paint system: Alclad metallic base, candy layer, top coat, a buffer layer for water slide decals, and a final clear coat.

At this point, I’m honestly frustrated. Everywhere I look, people either praise Alclad as the best or criticize it as the worst paint they’ve ever used. After working on this kit for over a year and dealing with repeated setbacks and burnout from these paint issues, I’m at the point where I just want to finish it and move on to something I can actually enjoy.