Ethan Clarke
Painting a white plastic model white is a great way to elevate your hobby. It can be time-consuming to paint intricate details and wait for layers to dry, but the process is rewarding and fun. Before painting your model, it is important to clean it with soap and water to ensure that dust particles or contaminants don't get sealed into the paint job. When it comes to the paint itself, you can use standard spray paint, but be sure to check that it is suitable for plastic. Acrylic modelling paint is a popular choice for model enthusiasts as it is easy to work with and can be thinned with water. To achieve a uniform texture, use spray paint for the base coat, and then add brush paint details or additional coats. For the best results, use quick bursts of colour and apply coats evenly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Acrylic, enamel, lacquer |
| Paint form | Spray, brush, airbrush |
| Paint brand | Tamiya, Vallejo, Mr Super Clear |
| Paint preparation | Mix paint before use, test on an inconspicuous area |
| Paint application | Apply multiple thin layers, work from light to dark, use quick bursts of colour, overlap brushstrokes |
| Paint drying time | 30-60 minutes between layers, 12 hours to dry, 24 hours to cure |
| Paint protection | Sealant with clear lacquer, clear coat, varnish |
| Paint safety | Use respirator, ventilate area, wear protective gloves and safety goggles |
| Model preparation | Clean with soap and water, dry with cloth |
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What You'll Learn
Painting white plastic models: cleaning and preparation
Painting white plastic models can be tricky, as the printing process often involves adding wax support, which can leave an oily residue and prevent paint from adhering correctly. Before you start painting, it's important to clean and prepare your model carefully.
First, inspect the quality of your model. If you notice any small wax remainders, you can use a toothpick or cotton swab to remove them. To remove oily residue, you can submerge the model in a mild solution of hot water and dish soap. The water temperature should be around 70ºC/158ºF, and you should let the model soak for a couple of hours. If there is still some residue, you can repeat this process. Alternatively, you can use an ultrasonic cleaning machine or dip the model in acetone for about 5 minutes, making sure to clean it thoroughly afterward.
Once your model is clean and dry, you may want to gently polish it using fine-grit sandpaper or toothpaste and a toothbrush. Be careful not to rub away any fine details. Before painting, it's recommended to use primer and stir the paint for at least one minute to ensure an even application. You can then start applying thin layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding another.
When you're ready to paint, start by taping off any areas where you don't want to apply paint. If you're using a spray can, make sure it's at room temperature, and hold it at least 30 cm away from the model. Work in one direction, starting with light colors and moving to dark. Apply several thin layers of paint, allowing adequate drying time between each application. Finally, remove the taped areas and let your model dry completely before handling.
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Choosing the right paint for white plastic models
Painting white plastic models white may seem like a straightforward task, but choosing the right paint and application method is crucial for achieving the desired results. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right paint for your white plastic models:
Paint Type
The type of paint you choose is essential for ensuring proper adhesion and a durable finish. Acrylic lacquer paints, such as the Floquil brand, are a popular choice for plastic models. These paints chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface, resulting in a strong bond and long-lasting finish. Acrylic lacquer paints also have the advantage of being usable as primers and can be layered with clear coats or varnish for added protection. Tamiya Acrylics, a well-known brand in plastic modelling, offers a wide range of colours and is known for its impressive chemical engineering.
Application Method
The application method depends on your preference and skill level. The brush method is a traditional and beginner-friendly approach, allowing for precise and controlled paint application. However, spraying methods, such as using a spray can or an airbrush gun, can create a seamless and even finish. When using a spray, maintain a minimum distance of 30 cm and always spray in one direction to avoid paint noses. Additionally, work in a well-ventilated area and consider using a respirator, protective gloves, and safety goggles to protect yourself from paint fumes.
Testing and Preparation
Before applying paint to your white plastic model, it is crucial to test the paint application on an inconspicuous area or a separate plastic object. This ensures that the paint adheres correctly and that you are happy with the colour and finish. Stir the paint thoroughly for at least one minute to ensure an even consistency. Additionally, tape off any areas of the model where you don't want paint to reach, and cover your work environment to protect it from overspray.
Drying and Sealant
Allow sufficient drying time between paint applications, typically around 30 to 60 minutes. After the final coat, let the model dry for about 12 hours at room temperature. Once the paint is dry, you can enhance and protect your work by applying a clear coat or sealant. Choose between a matte, satin, or glossy finish to achieve the desired look. The clear coat should match the colour type and be applied thinly to preserve the model's small details.
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Spray painting white plastic models
To spray paint a white plastic model, you will need to first tape off any areas where you don't want to apply paint. Next, test the paint application on an inconspicuous area or on a plastic cup. The spray can should be at room temperature, not too cold. Once you've tested the paint, you can apply the first layer, working with light colours first. Keep the spray can at a minimum distance of 30 cm and always paint in one direction. Repeat the paint application three more times, moving evenly and not too slowly to prevent the formation of colour noses. After each coat, wait about 30 to 60 minutes for the paint to dry.
After the final coat, let the model dry for about 12 hours at room temperature. It is recommended to let it dry in a dust-free place. Once it's dry, you can apply a sealant with clear lacquer using either a spray can or an airbrush gun. Make sure the clear coat matches the colour type and that you don't apply it too thickly so that small details are preserved. You can choose between a matte, satin, or glossy clear coat. Apply the clear coat over the entire surface, similar to priming.
Some additional tips to keep in mind: cover your surroundings carefully when spraying. Use a respirator and ventilate the area afterwards to protect your lungs from the fine paint mist. Protective gloves and safety goggles are also recommended.
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Brush painting white plastic models
Painting white plastic models with a brush can be challenging, and some modellers prefer to use an airbrush or spray paint to achieve a smooth finish. However, with the right tools, techniques, and patience, it is possible to achieve good results when brush painting white plastic models. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Prepare Your Work Area and Protect Your Health
Before you begin painting, it's important to cover your work area to protect it from paint. Use a respirator to protect your lungs from paint fumes, and ventilate the area well during and after painting. Protective gloves and safety goggles are also recommended to safeguard your skin and eyes from paint exposure.
Choose the Right Paint and Primer
When painting white plastic models, it's best to use a primer to create a smooth base for the white paint to adhere to. A light grey or white primer can be effective, and some modellers suggest using a gloss clear coat as a primer to help the paint adhere better. You can also use a retarder with the white paint to slow down the drying time and allow for more accurate application.
Select Appropriate Brushes
The quality of your paintbrushes can impact the final result. Avoid cheap brushes, as their bristles may not hold up well to solvents and could leave stray brush hairs in your work. Natural brushes, such as red sable or Kolinsky sable, are recommended for their softer bristles, which provide a smoother application, especially for water-based paints. Synthetic brushes, such as the AK-Interactive series, can also be a good option and tend to be more affordable.
Thin Your Paint and Apply Thin Coats
To achieve a smooth finish with white paint, it's important to thin your paint and apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. This helps to avoid brush strokes and build-up in crevices, resulting in a more even and professional-looking finish. Make sure there is not too much paint on your brush, and work quickly to avoid the paint drying and becoming blotchy.
Practice and Experiment
Seal and Protect Your Model
Once your model is painted and completely dry, you can apply a sealant with a clear lacquer to protect it from dust and dirt and to make the paint last longer. You can use a spray can or airbrush gun to apply a thin coat of matte, satin, or glossy clear lacquer, being careful not to apply it too thickly so that the small details of your model are preserved.
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Finishing and protecting white plastic models
Preparation:
Before painting, ensure your model is clean and free of any oily residue or dirt that may interfere with paint adhesion. Use a mild solution of hot water and dish soap, with a water temperature of around 70°C/158°F. Submerge the model for a couple of hours, repeating if necessary, until the water no longer turns cloudy. Alternatively, use a delicate brush or microfiber cloth to dust the model, then clean it with warm water and dish soap, allowing it to dry completely.
Priming:
It is highly recommended to use a primer before painting. When working with lighter shades, including white, opt for a grey or white primer. Avoid thick layers of primer to preserve fine details, and always allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Painting:
You can use ordinary model kit paints, with satin and matte paints being ideal for white plastic models. Stir the paint thoroughly before application. Test the paint on an inconspicuous area of the model or on a separate plastic object to ensure even coverage. When spraying, maintain a minimum distance of 30 cm and always spray in one direction, working from light to dark colours. Apply several thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding another.
Protection:
Once your model is painted and dry, you can protect it by applying a clear coat of lacquer using a spray can or airbrush gun. Choose between a matte, satin, or glossy finish, ensuring it matches the colour type. Apply the clear coat thinly and evenly over the entire surface to preserve small details and protect your model from dust and dirt.
Safety:
When working with paints and sprays, always prioritise your safety. Use protective gloves and safety goggles, and ventilate the area well to protect your lungs from paint mist.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic paint is the standard choice for most model enthusiasts. It is easy to work with and can be thinned with water. Lacquer paints are also an option and dry harder than acrylics, but they have a strong odour and require good ventilation.
A primer is not necessary unless your model is made of multiple materials, in which case it will help produce a uniform colour. If you do use a primer, a white spray primer is recommended.
Clean your model with soap and water to ensure there is no dust or residue. Tape off any areas you do not want to paint.
Spray paint is the easiest way to cover a large surface area with a uniform colour. You can then use a brush to add details or additional coats.
When using spray paint or lacquer, it is important to protect your lungs from the fine paint mist. Use a respirator and ventilate the area afterwards. Protective gloves and safety goggles are also recommended.
