Sofia Martinez
Painting plastic miniatures is a fun and meditative activity that can enhance your board games and RPGs. It can be daunting to start painting plastic figures, but with the right tools and techniques, you can bring your miniatures to life. The process is simple and can be done with a variety of paints, including acrylics, which are commonly used due to their quick-drying properties and ease of use. This guide will take you through the steps of preparing your plastic miniatures, from washing and assembling to priming and painting, ensuring that you achieve the best results.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Acrylic paints, hobby knife, sprue cutter, brushes, paper towels, water, glue, dish soap, toothbrush/scouring pad, wood filler, plastic cement, super glue, wet palette |
| Preparation | Wash plastic frame/miniature with soap and water, build/assemble miniature, attach to base, prime miniature |
| Lighting | Good lighting is important; movable lights with daylight bulbs can help avoid shadows that may cause eyestrain or missing spots |
| Painting | Use thinning techniques, apply paint to detailed areas with a variety of brush sizes |
| Cleaning | Clean brushes with water, wipe off excess paint with paper towels |
| Miniature Types | Wargames Atlantic, GW, WizKids (Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, My Little Pony, Transformers), Gunpla, Games Workshop (Adeptus Titanicus, Warhammer 40,000), Fantasy Flight Games (Star Wars: Legion) |
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What You'll Learn
Wash the plastic figure to remove any residue
When preparing a plastic figure for painting, it is important to wash it to remove any residue that may interfere with the paint and primer adhering to the miniature. This will ensure that your paint job won't easily chip off or have trouble sticking to the figure.
To wash your plastic figure, start by filling a bowl with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can cause the plastic to soften and become misshapen. The bowl should be large enough to completely submerge the figure. Then, add a small amount of liquid soap, such as mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid, being careful to avoid any that contain moisturisers as these can have adverse effects on the paint or plastic and leave your figure feeling greasy.
Next, gently scrub the figure with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using short, even strokes to clean off any dirt and grime. Be sure to get into all the joints and hard-to-reach areas. If your figure is particularly dirty, you can let it soak in the soapy water for a while before scrubbing. After scrubbing, place the figure back into the bowl of warm water and give it a final rinse, ensuring that all the soap is removed.
Once you've rinsed the figure, gently pat it down with a paper towel to remove any excess water. Be careful not to rub the figure with the towel, as this can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the paint. Instead, simply let the figure rest on a clean paper towel to air dry.
If your plastic figure has sticky residue, you can try using a blunt object like a spoon or credit card to gently scrape off the excess. You can also apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently rub the affected area, or use a solution of white vinegar or baking soda and water to remove the adhesive.
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Assemble the figure using glue
Assembling plastic figures can be a daunting but fun process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the gluing process:
Prepare the Parts:
Before you start gluing, ensure that all the parts are ready for assembly. This includes removing any excess plastic or leftover bits from the sprue. Use a hobby knife or a mouldline remover to gently scrape off any excess plastic. Be careful not to cut off any plastic that is part of the model. You can also use tweezers to handle small parts accurately and reduce the risk of damaging fragile components.
Choose the Right Glue:
The type of glue you use will depend on the material of your figure. If your figure is made of plastic, opt for plastic glue, specifically poly cement glue. Brands like Citadel and Revell offer precision with their small nozzles, helping you apply glue only where needed. For clear parts, use clear parts glue or Extra Thin Tamiya Cement to prevent the plastic from becoming foggy. If your figure is made of resin, super glue is usually the adhesive of choice. Some popular options include Gorilla Super Glue and "Selley's Quick Fix Super Glue".
Apply the Glue:
When gluing the pieces together, focus on the edges or contact points between the parts. Use a fine-tipped applicator, a toothpick, or a thin brush to apply a small amount of glue. Gently press the pieces together to prevent spillage, and hold them in position for a few seconds to allow the glue to set. If you're using masking tape to hold parts together, be careful not to apply it too tightly to avoid warping or breaking fragile parts.
Finalize the Assembly:
Continue assembling the figure one part at a time, following the instructions provided with your kit. Take your time, as precision is key to a well-assembled miniature. Once the model is completely assembled, examine it for any final alterations, such as punching holes, smoothing seams, or filling gaps with putty. Ensure that all parts are glued and in place, and let the glue fully cure before proceeding to the painting stage.
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Prime the figure
Priming a plastic figure is an important step in the painting process. It helps the paint adhere to the plastic surface and ensures a longer-lasting paint job. Here are some detailed instructions to prime your plastic figure:
Firstly, determine if your plastic figure needs to be washed. Although it is not necessary to wash plastic miniatures, there may be residue on the figure from the manufacturing process that can interfere with the paint and primer. This residue can cause paint to chip off easily. To wash the figure, use a mild dish soap and water, and scrub the miniature with a toothbrush or scouring pad. Rinse it off and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Next, choose the right primer for your plastic figure. Standard primers may not adhere well to plastic, so look for primers specifically designed for plastic, such as the one developed by Krylon. Acrylic primers are commonly offered by many companies, especially those specialising in paints for miniature models. However, when using acrylic primers, avoid using a spray can as it may never dry. Instead, opt for a brush-on acrylic primer. If you are using an airbrush, a cheap grey craft paint can also work well as a primer. Apply two thin coats for better durability.
When priming, ensure you are in a well-lit area so you can see the light reflecting off the figure. This will help you determine if you have applied enough primer. Hold the primer about a foot away from the figure and spray in short bursts. Apply the primer evenly, covering all surfaces of the miniature. You want to spray enough to eliminate any shininess when dry, but be careful not to apply too much primer, as it can fill in the cracks and fine details of your figure.
Additionally, consider using a primer colour that is different from the final paint colour. For example, if you plan to paint the figure with dark colours, use a white primer, and if you plan to use light colours, use a black primer. This will help you determine when you have applied enough paint and will also create a good base for your paint job.
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Choose the right paintbrushes and paint
When it comes to choosing the right paintbrushes and paint for your plastic figure, there are several factors to consider. The type of paint you choose will depend on the finish you want to achieve, the surface you're painting on, and your work environment.
For plastic figures, it is recommended to use acrylic lacquer paints as they can be used as primers, and they chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface, resulting in a durable finish. Water-based acrylic paints are also a good option, especially if you are a beginner, as they are easy to work with and clean up. If you are looking for a cost-effective option, consider using cheaper acrylic craft paints, which can be found in any craft store. However, keep in mind that multiple thin coats are better than one or two thick coats. Additionally, remember to test the paint on a small area first to ensure it adheres properly and that you are happy with the finish.
If you are painting smaller details, consider using a paint kit that includes a weathering pastel kit. For a super-smooth finish, opt for a White China Bristle brush, which is best suited for smooth surfaces. For textured surfaces, a Black China Bristle brush will provide better results due to its slightly stiffer and more durable bristles. Synthetic brushes, such as those made with nylon or a nylon/polyester blend, are versatile and suitable for most paints, including acrylics. These brushes offer superior paint pickup and production, leaving a smooth, professional finish, and making cleanup easier.
For indoor projects, look for paintbrushes that are designed for indoor use and will provide smooth finishes, such as those with soft, versatile bristles. If you are working outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, you may have more flexibility in the type of brush you can use. Consider the size of the area you are painting and the level of detail required. For larger surfaces, opt for a bigger brush or a roller, while smaller details may require finer brushes.
Remember to always read the instructions on the paint and follow any safety precautions, especially when working with solvent-based paints, as these may require additional ventilation and personal protective equipment, such as a respirator.
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Use a wet palette to stop paint from drying out
Using a wet palette is a great way to keep your paint from drying out. This is especially useful for painting plastic figures, as it allows you to take breaks without worrying about your paint drying up. Here's a guide on how to create and use a wet palette:
Assemble the Wet Palette
To make a wet palette, you'll need a shallow container with a lid. It should be flat and non-porous, with low sides to allow easy access for mixing paints. You can use a variety of containers, such as Tupperware, a glass casserole dish, a cookie sheet, or even a plastic tray.
Next, you'll need a sponge or absorbent material. This can be a kitchen sponge, a soft cloth towel, or paper towels. Soak your chosen material with water, but make sure it's not dripping wet. Place the damp sponge or towel at the bottom of your container, laying it out as flat as possible.
Now, add a layer of paper on top of the sponge. This can be parchment paper, baking paper, wax paper, or greaseproof paper. The paper should allow a small amount of moisture to penetrate while keeping your paint wet.
Prepare Your Paint
Once your wet palette is ready, it's time to add your paint. Squeeze out a small amount of paint onto the paper, ensuring it's within reach of the moisture from the sponge. You can use this palette just like a regular paint palette, mixing colours and creating different shades as needed.
Maintain Your Wet Palette
To keep your paint wet for an extended period, it's important to maintain your wet palette properly. Mist the paper or sponge with water occasionally to keep them damp. You can also mist the lid before closing it to create a humid environment inside the container. Change the paper towels or sponges every few days, as they can start to smell or get mouldy over time.
By following these steps, you can effectively use a wet palette to keep your paint from drying out while painting plastic figures. This technique is versatile and can be adapted based on the materials you have available. Remember to experiment and find the right balance of moisture to keep your paint fresh and workable throughout your project.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need acrylic paints, a hobby knife, a sprue cutter, paintbrushes, paper towels, water, and good lighting.
First, wash the plastic with dish soap and water to remove any residue. Then, build and attach the miniatures to their bases. Finally, prime your miniatures.
Acrylic paints are the most commonly used for painting miniatures. They dry quickly and are easy to work with.
You will need a comfortable chair and a sturdy table. Make sure you have good lighting to avoid eye strain and to ensure you don't miss any spots.
