The author of Instructables under the nickname ErmanK tells how to remake toys from which children grew up, or that they just got tired of, into figurines that look like they are made of metal. Of course, they are no longer suitable for the game: the paint is peeling off, and it is not certified as safe for children. So - on the shelf or in the sideboard, and do not touch it anymore.
The master takes the toys themselves:
Metal paint, brushes, spoons, glasses, steel sponge (not shown), flat plastic stick, gloves, respirator:
PVA glue, metal filings, several other types of metal paints:
The master cleans and primers the toys, waiting for the complete drying of the soil. Places that are not covered with soil should not be left on the surface.
The simplest method is to apply acrylic paint with metal particles. To diversify the coating options the master offers so. To mix such a paint with water, PVA glue and a small amount of black dye - on the surface of the toy, in addition to imitating metal, you will get small black dots, spots or stripes. A small amount of green paint can achieve the effect of patina. If you replace PVA glue with dishwashing detergent, you get an unusual random texture.
The master takes the idea of the second method here: Prepare the paint yourself by mixing two parts of the metal powder with one part of the PVA glue. Apply slowly, first filling in the hollows of complex shape. Do not brush again where the previous layer has not dried up yet. You can paint one toy while the paint dries on another, then alternate. The method requires leisurely and patience.
The master tries to process the dried coating additionally. You can lightly rub it with a steel sponge. For this, he suggests preparing gloves and a respirator, but here they are redundant, because fiberglass is not there. You can also apply a transparent nail polish, you get a glossy finish. You can try to make small dents on the coating with an unnecessary metal spoon.
While the layers on other toys dry out, the master paints one more, this time with bronze paint:
You can turn into figurines in this way not only toys, but also any plastic products, including 3D printed. The authenticity of vintage things, of course, is better not to violate.