What Makes the XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Different
The XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX is part of Mr. Hobby's Gundam Marker EX series, which aims for higher-grade color expression. Unlike standard flat markers, this one uses metallic paint raw materials that shift to various rainbow colors depending on the angle. That means you can add a dynamic, iridescent effect to your Gunpla without mixing paints or using an airbrush.
The effect is easiest to see in strong light, so plan to display or inspect your work under bright lighting. To get the best results, the manufacturer recommends applying a clear gloss coat on top of the paint. This protective layer not only seals the finish but also enhances the color shift.
Product Details at a Glance
- XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX: Part of the Gundam Marker EX series for higher-grade color expression. Signals that this marker is formulated for more dramatic effects than standard Gundam Markers.
XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX - XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX: Uses metallic paint raw materials that change to various rainbow colors depending on the angle. Explains the color-shift property that defines the holo red effect.
- XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX: The effect is easier to see in strong light. Helps you choose lighting when applying and displaying the marker.
- XGM202 Trans Am Holo Red Gundam Marker EX: For best results, use a clear gloss coat on top of the paint. A gloss topcoat is recommended to protect and enhance the finish.
How to Apply the Holo Red Marker
Before you start, make sure your model kit is clean and dry. The marker works best on bare plastic or a cured painted surface. Shake the marker well to mix the metallic particles, then follow these steps for a smooth application.
- Prepare the surface: Ensure the part is free of dust, oil, and moisture. If you've painted the part, allow it to cure completely.
- Shake and test: Shake the marker thoroughly to distribute the metallic particles. Test on a spare runner or hidden area to check the flow and color shift.
- Apply in thin layers: Use light, even strokes. Build up the color gradually rather than flooding the surface. Let each layer dry before adding another.
- Check under strong light: The holo effect is most visible in bright light. Inspect your work under a desk lamp or direct sunlight to see the rainbow shift.
- Seal with clear gloss: Once satisfied, apply a clear gloss coat over the painted area to protect the finish and enhance the effect, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Tips for Getting the Best Holo Red Effect
- Use strong lighting: The color shift is more pronounced under bright, direct light. Position your model near a window or use a strong desk lamp when applying and displaying.
- Don't skip the gloss coat: A clear gloss coat not only protects the paint but also helps the metallic particles catch the light, making the rainbow effect pop.
- Apply over a base color: While not specified by the manufacturer, many modelers apply holo markers over a similar base color to deepen the effect. Test on a spare part first to see what works for you.
- Practice on a runner: Before committing to a visible part, practice your stroke and layering on the plastic runner to get a feel for the marker's flow and drying time.
Where to Use Holo Red on Your Gunpla
The Trans Am Holo Red marker is ideal for accent areas that benefit from a dynamic, light-catching finish. Consider using it on inner frame details, weapon barrels, thrusters, or as a highlight on armor edges. Because the color shifts with the angle, it can add a sense of movement and depth to your model. Avoid applying it to large flat surfaces unless you want a bold, iridescent panel, as the effect is most striking in smaller, focused areas.
What to Keep in Mind
The XGM202 is a paint marker, so it requires some care. The supplied information does not include specific safety warnings, so always work in a well-ventilated area and follow general model paint precautions. The marker is currently listed as sold out, so if you're interested, add it to your wishlist to be notified when it's back in stock. The catalog also does not specify a recommended drying time or compatibility with other paint types; test on a small area first if you plan to layer it with other products.
