Omar Khalid
Painting plastic model kits is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's important to prepare your kit properly before you start painting. The first step is to wash the parts with warm soapy water to remove any mould release residue and then to apply a primer. Once the primer is dry, you can start painting with a brush, spray can, or airbrush. Different paints have different advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right type of paint for your project. Acrylic paints are a popular choice for model kits because they are easy to work with, dry quickly, and can be thinned with water. Enamel paints provide better colour coverage and a smoother finish, but they take longer to dry and have a stronger odour. Lacquers dry very hard and are easy to polish, but they also have a strong odour. With good preparation and the right tools, you can achieve a professional-looking paint job on your plastic model kit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Wash the parts in warm soapy water, then dry |
| Primer | Necessary to find imperfections and rough areas. Use a light colour, preferably light grey or white enamel paint. |
| Paint type | Acrylics are the preferred choice for model enthusiasts and beginners. Enamels are oil-based and traditional, providing better colour coverage and a smoother finish. Lacquers dry harder than acrylics and enamels and are good for high-gloss finishes. |
| Application | Airbrush, brush, or spray can. |
| Drying time | Acrylics dry quickly. Enamels take longer to dry. Lacquers require ample drying time and full ventilation due to strong odours. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning the model before painting
Painting plastic models is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's important to prepare your model correctly before you start painting. One crucial step is cleaning the model to ensure the paint adheres properly and your final result looks professional and realistic. Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean your plastic model before reaching for your paintbrush:
Firstly, inspect your model for any release agents. Most soft plastics have a release agent on the mold to help release the miniature from its mold during production. If your model feels smooth, slick, or slippery, it likely has a release agent on it. To remove this, simply wash the model with mild soap and water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the model, ensuring you reach all the nooks and crannies.
Next, rinse the model well with clean, non-soapy water to remove any soap residue. Gently dunk the model in a container of clean water, or use a soft cloth to wipe it down if it is more delicate. Place the model on a towel or absorbent surface to air dry. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process, but be careful not to melt or deform the plastic.
For more stubborn release agents or if you want to be extra thorough, you can leave the model to soak in rubbing alcohol overnight after washing with soap and water. This will help break down any remaining release agents and ensure a clean surface for painting. Remember to always work in a well-ventilated area when using rubbing alcohol and wear protective gloves if needed.
Finally, once your model is clean and dry, you may want to consider applying a primer. Primers can help the paint adhere better and provide a more even base for your paint job. Acrylic lacquer paints, for example, can serve as both primer and paint, as they chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface, resulting in a durable finish.
By following these steps to clean and prepare your plastic model, you'll be well on your way to achieving a professional-looking paint job. So grab your paintbrushes and get ready to bring your model to life with vibrant, lasting colors!
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Using primer
Painting plastic models requires precision and attention to detail. Using primer is an important step in achieving a professional paint job on your model. Primer is an undercoat that prepares the surface of your model for paint. It smooths out imperfections, creates an even undertone, and helps the paint adhere to the surface. A good primer will also prevent paint colours from peeling and chipping off the model.
There are a variety of primers available for plastic models, including spray primers and brush-on primers. Spray primers, such as the Citadel Model Primer, are aerosol-based and should be used in a well-ventilated area. They are ideal for covering large surface areas and can be used on multiple models at once to avoid waste. Brush-on primers, like the Testors primer, are more readily available in local art supply stores and are perfect for travelling with your painting kit. They require vigorous shaking before use to mix the primer with the aerosol contents, and should be held 6-12 inches away from the model during application.
When choosing a primer, consider the colour of your final model. The main primer colours used by plastic modellers are black, grey, and white. If your model will be dark or metallic, a black primer is ideal as it reduces the number of washes needed to tone down subsequent colours. For bright colours like yellow or bright blue, a white primer will give the best results. Grey primer is a good option if you are painting over dark plastic with a light or bright colour, such as when painting skeletons.
It is important to apply the primer evenly and in thin coats, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. Depending on the desired result, up to four passes may be necessary. Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting your model, following the instructions provided with your model kit. Remember to start with light colours, then move to dark tones, and finally, add any metallic colours.
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Painting techniques
Painting plastic models is a highly rewarding and fun process. Here are some techniques to help you get started:
Preparation
Before you start painting, it's important to prepare your workspace and the model itself. Work outdoors in a garden or terrace, or in a well-ventilated room. Place a pad on the floor to catch any paint splashes. Clean the model with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or dust. Tape off any areas you don't want to paint, especially glued areas, so that they can be joined together after painting. If needed, apply a primer to help the paint adhere better. Use a white primer for light colours and a grey primer for dark colours.
Paint Types
Acrylic modelling paint is the most commonly used paint for plastic models. It is easy to work with and can be thinned with water. Lacquer paints, such as the Floquil brand, are another option and were even used for the original Star Wars props! These paints can be layered and sanded, and they can also be used as primers.
Brush Painting
Brush painting is ideal for beginners. Use a high-quality synthetic brush in a small size, such as a synthetic sable or fox hair brush, to avoid fraying and to achieve precise brush strokes. Start with light colours, then move to dark tones, and finally, metallic colours. Paint slowly and evenly, overlapping your brushstrokes. Wash your brush thoroughly after each colour change.
Spray Painting
Spray painting is another method for applying paint to your model. Use quick bursts of colour to apply coats evenly. You can also use an airbrush to spray smaller areas. Thin your paint with enamel thinner or water, and adjust the pressure settings on the airbrush as needed. Wear a respirator when using an airbrush.
Drying and Finishing
Allow each colour to dry for about 30 to 60 minutes. Depending on the desired result, you may need to apply up to four coats. Once everything is painted, let the model dry for about 12 hours in a dust-free, wind-protected, and moderately warm place. Finally, apply any decals, such as logos or lettering, according to the instructions.
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Paint types
Painting plastic model kits is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's important to choose the right paint type for the best results. There are three main types of paint that can be used on plastic models: acrylics, enamels, and lacquers. Each type has unique characteristics and is suitable for different methods of application.
Acrylic paints are water-based and are the most popular choice for model enthusiasts. They are easy to work with, dry quickly, and can be thinned by mixing with water. Acrylics don't have a strong smell, making them ideal for use in poorly ventilated areas or around children. They are available in airbrush-ready and regular versions for brush application. When using water-based acrylics, it's recommended to have both types, as making the brush version suitable for airbrushing can be challenging. Acrylic lacquer paints, such as the Floquil brand, are particularly durable as they chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface. They can also be used as primers and can be layered with clear coats, varnish, or sanded back if needed.
Enamels, on the other hand, are oil-based paints and are a more traditional option. They offer better colour coverage and a smoother finish compared to acrylics. Enamels are typically applied with a brush and are suitable for creating precise and detailed work.
Lacquer paints are known for their quick drying time, allowing modellers to continue working on their project without lengthy delays. Like acrylic lacquers, they can be layered with clear coats and varnish or sanded if needed. However, when using lacquer paints, it's important to note that the solvent base can reactivate layers of acrylic and enamel paints, causing the layers to merge or seep into one another. Therefore, it's recommended to test the new layer on a small portion before full application to avoid any adverse reactions.
When painting plastic models, it's essential to follow a systematic approach. Start with light colours, followed by dark tones, and finally, metallic colours. Allow each colour to dry for about 30 to 60 minutes, and depending on the desired result, up to four passes may be necessary. Once the painting is complete, let the model dry for approximately 12 hours in a dust-free, wind-protected, and moderately warm place. Lastly, apply any decals, such as logos or lettering, according to the instructions provided with the model kit.
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Safety precautions
Painting plastic model kits can be done using three methods: airbrush gun, brush, or spray can. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and proper preparation is essential for achieving a clean and precise paint application. Here are some safety precautions to follow when painting plastic model kits:
Work Area Preparation:
Before starting, ensure your work area is well-ventilated by working outdoors or in a room with good ventilation. Cover your work surface with old newspapers or a drop cloth to protect it from paint splatters. Use a paint rack to safely store paints and a soft cloth to remove any dust or dirt from the model.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Wear protective gloves and safety goggles to shield your skin and eyes from paint exposure. If using spray paint or an airbrush gun, wear a respirator with organic solvent filters to protect your lungs from paint mist and fumes. Ensure adequate ventilation during and after painting, and ventilate the work area well afterward.
Paint Characteristics:
Be mindful of the paint type you are using. Water-based paints are generally safer, but if you opt for solvent-based paints, ensure you take the necessary health and safety precautions. Some paints may contain organic solvents, which can affect your previous paintwork. Always read the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the specific paint you are using.
Drying and Curing:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times between coats. Typically, each colour coat should dry for about 30 to 60 minutes, and the final painted model should be left to dry for about 12 hours in a dust-free, wind-protected, and moderately warm place.
Sealant Application:
Once the model is dry, you may want to apply a sealant with clear lacquer to protect the paint job. Use a spray can or airbrush gun, ensuring the clear coat matches the colour type. Avoid applying it too thickly to preserve the small details of the model. Allow the sealant to dry completely before handling the model extensively.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic modelling paint is the standard preferred choice for model kits. It is the most highly recommended paint for beginners as it is easy to work with, dries quickly, and can be thinned by mixing with water. Lacquers are also a good option as they dry hard and have more colour variations and options for high-gloss finishes.
It is important to clean the model thoroughly before painting to avoid "fish eyes" or paint pulling away from certain areas. This can be done by washing the parts in warm soapy water or with a light coat of dish soap and water to remove mould release. You should also apply a base coat with primer and sand the primer with fine-grit sandpaper.
There are three methods for a clean and precise paint application: airbrush gun, brush, or spray can. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider which one is most suitable for your project. Good preparation and allowing enough time for implementation are key to achieving a smooth paint job.
