Cadmium Red is the classic artist's red – saturated, slightly warm and with good coverage. It is the red most people picture when they hear the word, which makes it a universal base for everything from uniforms to shields.
| Range | Standard |
| Colour family | Red |
| Type | water-based acrylic |
| Finish | matt |
| Packaging | dropper bottle |
| Manufacturer code | AK11085 |
| EAN | 8435568303188 |
| Manufacturer | AK Interactive |
| Country of origin | Spain |
Shade with Bordeaux Red or Wine Red; highlight with Scarlet Red and Vermillion. A drop of Carmine shifts it towards a cooler, raspberry red.
How do I make red cover properly?
Never with a thick coat. Base in dark red or brown, then build two or three thin coats of Cadmium Red – red pigments need an undercoat, not thickness.
Cadmium Red or Matt Red?
Cadmium Red is more saturated and slightly warmer; Matt Red is more muted. Cadmium for a bright uniform, Matt Red for worn clothing.
How do I thin it?
With water or an AK thinner. A few drops are enough for brush work; airbrushing needs more – AK thinners and cleaners are made for that. With acrylics, two thin coats always beat one thick one.
Is the finish really matt?
Yes, the 3rd Generation range dries matt. To protect the figure or even out the sheen, seal it with a matt varnish at the end.
The full range is in the AK 3rd Generation category.