Ethan Clarke
Painting Gunpla, or Gundam models, is a popular hobby with a dedicated online community. Painting clear plastic parts is a common topic of discussion, with many enthusiasts sharing their experiences and recommendations. The consensus is that it is possible to paint clear plastic Gunpla, but it requires some experimentation and the right tools. Some popular methods include using marker pens, such as Sharpies, or specialised paints like Tamiya clear acrylic paints.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Clear paint, enamel paint, acrylic lacquer paint, metallic paint |
| Paint brand | Tamiya, Gundam Marker, The Army Painter |
| Paint application | Spray, airbrush, hand paint, marker pen |
| Paint preparation | Thinner, enamel thinner, Zippo lighter fluid |
| Paint finish | Flat, matte, glossy |
| Paint colour | Red, blue, yellow, orange, green, purple, clear |
| Paint coverage | Light coat, thin coat |
| Paint testing | Spoon, cheap HG kits |
| Additional tools | X-acto knife, fine grit sandpaper, bamboo skewers, tape, alligator clips |
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![Mr. Hobby - Pour Type Gundam Marker [Black], GSI Creos Gundam Marker (GM301P)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/616pYM0t9AL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
Use a light coat of clear Tamiya colours
Tamiya clear paints are quite thick, so they need to be thinned down, especially if you are hand-painting with them. You can use Enamel Thinners or Zippo Lighter Fluid as a thinner, adding paint and thinner in a 1:1 ratio. However, Tamiya paints are alcohol-based, so water should not be used as a thinner. Instead, try 90% isopropyl alcohol or Windex. To get a nice effect, paint the surface with silver and then paint the clear colour over it so that some of the metallic silver comes through.
When using Tamiya clear paints, thin coats are key. Any pooling will result in some areas that you can see through, while the areas that pooled will be foggy. To avoid this, it is recommended to put down multiple thin coats to help create a more consistent layer.
Tamiya clear colours seem to favour darker paint over lighter ones when mixing, so it is recommended to make a base of the lighter colour and slowly add the darker colour.
Tamiya clear paints are amazing to work with. The results can be staggering if you like glossy, shiny plates. However, Tamiya paints can be a bit corrosive, and they can cause the plastic to become brittle or crack if you are not careful.
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Try a Gundam marker
Gundam markers are essentially paint pens that come in a range of colours, including metallic shades such as gold and green. They are ideal for touching up small spots on a kit, rather than line details. They can be used to paint directly onto the model, or the paint can be squeezed out and applied with a paintbrush for more detailed work.
To use a Gundam marker, you need to push down on a hard surface until the paint begins to flow. You can also add a drop of levelling thinner to the paint to help it flow more easily. If you are using a Gundam marker on a painted kit, be aware that they will eat through ABS-type plastics.
Gundam markers are a good option for beginners, as they are easy to use and clean up. The Real Touch series of Gundam Markers, for example, comes with two tips—one fine and one larger—and can be cleaned up with an eraser. Sakura's Pigma Micron pens are another option, available in various colours and sizes, although they do not come in grey.
If you are painting a clear plastic Gunpla, you can use a Gundam marker to paint the bottom side of a lens to give it depth. You can also try thinning the paint to make it more translucent.
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Use a matte top coat
Using a matte top coat on your Gunpla model can significantly enhance its overall appearance and provide protection for the plastic. The flat finish of a matte top coat acts as a primer, preventing panel lining or other paints from sliding on the slick plastic surface. It is essential to note that once you apply the matte top coat, you will not be able to use the eraser technique to correct any mistakes, so precision is crucial.
When choosing a top coat spray for your Gunpla, you have various options, including Mr. Super Clear Flat Spray and Tamiya Flat Clear. These sprays are designed to give your model a finished look and can be applied to the entire body or individual parts, depending on your preference. It is recommended to apply the top coat before putting on any shiny metallic stickers, as the matte finish will cause them to lose their shine.
Before applying the top coat, ensure you have built your Gunpla model and shaved down any nubs with an X-acto knife. You can use fine grit sandpaper or a nail file to smooth out the plastic, but be cautious as the matte top coat will highlight any scuff marks. To avoid this, you can use a matte top coat to conceal imperfections and give your model a more polished look.
Additionally, consider the weather conditions when using a top coat spray like Mr. Super Clear. Spraying on a rainy or moist day may result in a white, powdery residue on the plastic, so it is advisable to use it in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Applying the top coat first, followed by panel lining, weathering, and detailing, is generally recommended as these media adhere better to coated plastic.
Using a matte top coat can be an effective way to improve the appearance of your Gunpla model and protect the plastic. It is important to follow the necessary steps, such as building the model, shaving down nubs, and being mindful of weather conditions, to ensure the best results. With the right techniques and precision, you can achieve a polished and refined look for your Gunpla.
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Test on cheap HG kits
If you're new to painting clear plastic Gunpla, it's a good idea to test out your techniques on cheaper HG kits before moving on to more expensive models. HG, or High Grade, is a line of Gunpla kits by Bandai that feature a better range of motion and greater poseability than most No-Grade kits. They are usually cheaper than other Gunpla kits, making them perfect for practicing your painting skills.
When it comes to painting clear plastic Gunpla, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to use a clear paint specifically designed for plastic, such as the ones found in craft stores for "stained glass" projects. These paints will allow you to achieve a transparent, colourful finish. Alternatively, you can use a Gundam marker, which is perfect for hand-painting small details like sensors or lenses. If you're looking for a spray paint option, Tamiya Clear is a good choice, offering a range of clear colours.
Before you start painting, it's important to prepare your HG kit properly. Use an X-acto knife to cut away any excess plastic and then file down the edges with fine-grit sandpaper. This will ensure a smooth surface for painting. It's also a good idea to use a top coat spray before painting to help conceal any blemishes and provide a better surface for the paint to adhere to. Mr. Super Clear Flat Spray is a popular option, but there are also other matte options available, such as Tamiya Flat Clear.
When painting your HG kit, always work in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions on your chosen paint carefully. It's also important to note that some paints, like clear acrylic lacquer, can give a "frosted" look if overapplied, so always test on a small area first. Additionally, be mindful of the weather conditions when spraying, as rainy or moist weather can cause a white, powdery residue to form on the plastic.
Finally, remember that everyone's techniques and preferences for painting Gunpla are different, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to create beautifully painted clear plastic Gunpla models that you can be proud of.
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Use a standard marker pen
Painting Gunpla with a standard marker pen is a straightforward process, but it requires some preparation and patience. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Gunpla pieces:
Before you start painting, it is essential to clean the Gunpla pieces to ensure the paint adheres properly. Wash the pieces with lukewarm water and a mild detergent to remove any oil or dirt. Rinse and dry the pieces thoroughly with a paper towel.
Choose the right marker pen:
Select a marker pen with a fine tip, such as the Sakura Pigma Micron pens, which are available in various colours and tip sizes. The tip should be durable and allow for precise application. Alternatively, you can use a standard Sharpie, which can also get the job done.
Test the marker:
Before applying the marker directly to the Gunpla piece, test it on a similar surface or a small, inconspicuous area of the model. This will ensure that the ink flows smoothly and that you are happy with the colour and coverage.
Apply the marker to the Gunpla:
Start by activating the marker. Do this by pushing the tip down on a hard surface, such as a paper towel, until the paint begins to flow. Carefully apply the marker to the desired areas of the Gunpla piece. Work in light, even coats, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This will help you achieve a smooth and consistent finish.
Consider using a brush for details:
For intricate details or small areas, consider transferring the ink from the marker to a fine-tipped paintbrush. This will give you more control and precision. Clean your brush with an appropriate solvent to avoid leaving stray marks.
Seal and protect your work:
Once you are happy with the colour and coverage, you may want to apply a top coat to seal and protect the paint job. A matte or glossy top coat can enhance the overall finish and add a professional touch to your Gunpla model.
Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and always follow the safety instructions on any products you use. With these steps, you can achieve impressive results when painting clear plastic Gunpla with standard marker pens.
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Frequently asked questions
Tamiya Color has a line of clear acrylic paints that can be sprayed on with an airbrush or spray can. You can also use a Gundam Marker, or a standard marker pen like a Sharpie.
You can use a Gundam Marker to hand-paint the eyes, but be sure to paint the bottom side of the lens, not the top side, to give some depth.
If you want to change the colour of a beam saber, you can paint it metallic silver and then coat it with a clear colour. You can also use a metallic colour and not mix it well, or not mix it at all. Just use the thin paint at the top of the bottle.
