Micro-Mark Union Blue Paint, 20ml

• Deep navy blue inspired by Union Army uniforms of the American Civil War
• Matte finish ideal for coats, kepis, and historical figure painting
• Pairs perfectly with Brass, Gold, and Black for buttons and trim
• Excellent for Civil War dioramas, historical wargaming, and Americana scenes
• Made in the USA

Description
Union Blue is a rich, dark navy based on the iconic wool uniforms worn by Union soldiers during the American Civil War. It offers excellent coverage with a muted, authentic tone perfect for painting jackets, hats, and overcoats. When combined with metallic details, Union Blue provides striking contrast that brings 19th-century miniatures and dioramas to life.

Union Blue is in these sets

29496 US Revolution-Civil War Acrylic Paint Set, 9pc

29503 US Military Acrylic Paint Set, 81pc

Modeling Use Cases

• Historical Figures: Union infantry, officers, and cavalry
• Wargaming Armies: Color-consistent units for tabletop play
• Civil War Dioramas: Battle scenes, parades, and camps
• Railroad & Americana Builds: Period uniforms, workwear
• Fantasy or Steampunk: Naval uniforms, elite guards, or ceremonial garb

The Union Army’s choice of dark blue uniforms—known today as "Union Blue"—was based on a combination of tradition, practicality, symbolism, and existing supply chains:

1. Military Tradition

• Dark blue was the standard color for the U.S. Army long before the Civil War, dating back to the Revolutionary War and solidified during the War of 1812.
• The color was associated with discipline, professionalism, and loyalty, modeled after European military uniforms (particularly French and Prussian styles).

2. Preexisting Federal Stockpiles

• When the Civil War began in 1861, the U.S. government already had large supplies of indigo-dyed blue wool uniforms.
• Maintaining the blue color allowed for continuity and logistical efficiency, especially important in the early chaotic months of mobilization.

3. Visual and Tactical Reasoning

• Blue contrasted well with the Confederates’ gray and butternut, which helped differentiate friend from foe on the battlefield (especially as uniforms became more standardized).
• Dark blue was considered a less conspicuous alternative to bright reds used in older European uniforms, which had fallen out of favor as rifled firearms increased in accuracy.

4. Symbolism of Union & Unity

• Blue had become symbolic of the United States federal government, and was used in flags, emblems, and navy uniforms.
• Wearing dark blue reinforced the Union’s identity as the preservers of the United States, in contrast to the secessionist gray of the Confederacy.

While officers and enlisted men wore varying shades and styles (due to supply and local contractors), the iconic navy blue frock coat and kepi became a hallmark of Union imagery.