Ethan Clarke
Painting plastic military figures can be a fun activity, but it can be tricky to get the paint to stick and prevent flaking. A good first step is to wash the figures with detergent or warm soapy water and then dry them. Next, you can apply an undercoat or a coat of paint that bonds with plastic, such as Krylon Fusion. After that, you can start painting with acrylic craft paints, which are thicker and have more pigment. It's best to paint one colour at a time and let each coat dry before moving on to the next. Once you're done painting, let the figures dry for at least 24 hours before sealing them with a matte or flat acrylic spray sealant. For extra protection, you can apply additional coats of sealant. If the figures are going to be handled a lot, you might want to consider a coat of diluted or undiluted PVA glue before or after sealing to toughen them up and prevent flaking.
Characteristics and Values Table for Painting Plastic Military Figures
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clean Figures | Use a toothbrush with water and washing-up liquid, or detergent |
| Base Coat | Spray with a plastic-bonding paint, such as Krylon Fusion. Flat dark brown is a good backdrop |
| Paint | Acrylic paints. Craft paint is thicker with more pigment |
| Painting Technique | One color at a time, allowing each to dry before moving on |
| Drying Time | Allow 24 hours to dry before sealing |
| Sealant | Matte or flat acrylic spray sealant. Apply 2-3 coats for extra protection |
| Toughen | Coat with diluted PVA glue to prevent flaking |
| Varnish | Apply 2 coats of Future/Klear gloss floor varnish |
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What You'll Learn
Wash with detergent
When preparing plastic military figures for painting, it is recommended to wash them with detergent first. This is because plastic models often have a release agent on the mould to make the miniatures. This residue can prevent paint from adhering properly to the surface, causing it to come off easily. Therefore, it is essential to wash the figures with warm soapy water and a toothbrush to scrub away any release agents or other contaminants.
For the detergent wash, you can use regular dish soap or washing-up liquid. Create a soapy solution in a sink or basin and use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the figures. Pay particular attention to nooks and crannies, ensuring that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. Rinse the figures with warm water to remove any soap residue and then allow them to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Some modellers suggest an additional step of soaking the figures in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) after washing. This helps remove any remaining oils or residue and can improve paint adhesion. However, it is essential to note that rubbing alcohol can damage painted surfaces, so it should only be used on unpainted models. After soaking in alcohol, rinse the figures again with warm water and allow them to dry.
The detergent wash step is crucial, especially for soft plastic models, as it ensures that the paint will adhere well to the surface. By removing the release agent and any other contaminants, you can be confident that your paint job will be durable and long-lasting. This step may be skipped by some modellers, but it is generally recommended, especially if you plan to handle the figures during gaming or display them for extended periods.
After the detergent wash and optional alcohol soak, your plastic military figures are ready for the next step in the painting process, which typically involves applying a primer or undercoat. By starting with a clean surface, you can achieve better results and avoid issues with paint flaking or chipping. Remember to handle the figures carefully, holding them by the base or less critical areas to avoid leaving fingerprints or contaminating the surfaces to be painted. The detergent wash step is a simple but vital process in ensuring the best results for your painted plastic miniatures.
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Use plastic-bonding paint
When painting plastic military figures, one of the most important steps is to use the right type of paint. A critical step in ensuring that your paint job is durable and long-lasting is to start with a plastic-bonding paint, also known as a primer. Here are some tips and instructions for using plastic-bonding paint effectively:
Select a suitable plastic-bonding paint: Choose a product specifically designed for bonding with plastic surfaces, such as Krylon Fusion. This type of paint will ensure a strong adhesion between the paint and the plastic figure, reducing the chances of flaking or peeling.
Prepare the surface: Before applying the plastic-bonding paint, make sure the plastic surface is clean and dry. Wash the figures with warm, soapy water or detergent to remove any dirt, grease, or mould release agents. Rinse them well and allow them to dry completely before proceeding.
Apply the plastic-bonding paint: Once the figures are clean and dry, spray them with the plastic-bonding paint. Choose a colour that will provide a good backdrop for your final paint colour. For example, flat dark brown or black can be excellent base colours. Allow the bonding paint to dry for at least 24 hours to ensure it cures properly.
Consider using PVA glue: Before applying your final paint colours, consider coating the figures with diluted or undiluted PVA glue. This step is optional but can help toughen up the figures and reduce flaking, especially if they will be handled frequently. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding.
Paint with acrylics: After the plastic-bonding paint and any additional coatings have cured, you can begin painting with acrylic craft paints. These paints typically have thicker consistencies and higher pigment concentrations, resulting in better coverage and more vibrant colours. Apply one colour at a time, allowing each coat to dry before moving on to the next.
Remember, taking your time and following these steps will help ensure that your paint job on the plastic military figures is durable and visually appealing.
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Apply acrylic paints
When painting plastic military figures with acrylic paint, it is recommended to wash the figures in warm water with some dish soap to remove any residue and oils from the plastic. This will help the paint stick better and create a more even finish. It is also a good idea to test any paints on junk figures or spare parts first, as some colours may not show up as expected or spread well on plastic.
Before painting, gather a variety of good-quality brushes in different sizes and shapes. Rinse them thoroughly after each use, and they can last for years. Acrylic paints are water-based, so they can be thinned with water if needed. Add a few drops of water to the paint to help it spread more evenly, especially if the paint is particularly thick.
Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one or two thick coats for the best results. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This technique will create a smoother and more durable finish. It is also important to use a sealer after painting to protect the paint job and prevent scratches or chipping. A brush-on sealer is preferred over a spray sealer, as it provides more precise control and better coverage.
Additionally, consider using a primer before painting to improve paint adhesion and durability. This is especially important if the plastic figure has a smooth surface, as the primer will provide a better grip for the paint. When choosing paint colours, keep in mind that dying figures can be tricky and may not always yield consistent results, so it is recommended to stick to acrylic paints for the best outcome.
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Seal with a spray
Sealing your plastic military figures with a spray is the last step in the painting process. Before you seal your figures, you must first prime and paint them.
There are a few spray sealers that are popular among painters. One of the most recommended sealers is Testors Dullcote, which eliminates shine from models. It can be purchased from most chain art stores in the U.S., like AC Moore, Michaels, and JOANN Fabrics, as well as hobby stores that carry model cars and trains.
If you are looking for a glossier finish, you can opt for a sealer with a slight shine, as the shine of a sealer can enrich the colours of your figures. However, if you are experiencing issues with cloudiness, it is recommended to use a matte sealer.
When sealing your figures, it is important to allow each layer to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the next coat. For extra protection, you can apply a second or even a third coat of sealant.
In addition to spray sealants, you can also use diluted PVA glue as a sealing method. This will toughen up your figures and help prevent flaking and peeling, although it will not stop it completely.
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Prevent paint flaking
Painting plastic military figures can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's common for paint to chip or flake over time. Here are some tips to help prevent flaking and keep your miniatures looking their best:
Prepare the Surface
Before painting, it's essential to clean the plastic surface to remove any dirt, grease, or mould release agents. Use a toothbrush with warm water and a mild detergent to scrub the figures gently. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly to the plastic. Make sure to dry the figures thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Prime the Surface
Priming the surface is an important step in preparing the plastic for paint adhesion. Use a primer specifically designed for plastic, such as a plastic bonding spray paint or a recommended primer from a hobby store. Lightly coat the figures with several thin layers of primer, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This will create a strong base for your paint and help it adhere better, reducing the chances of flaking.
Thin Your Paint
When applying paint to plastic miniatures, it's crucial to thin your paint to the appropriate consistency. Undiluted paint can result in uneven coverage and obscure intricate details. Thin your paint with a few drops of water or acrylic thinner on a palette, mixing until you achieve a smooth, fluid consistency. This will ensure the paint flows easily from the brush, providing even coverage without obscuring the details of the miniature.
Use a Flexible Coating
To prevent flaking, consider using a flexible coating like undiluted craft glue (PVA glue) before painting. This will provide a durable, bendable layer that can withstand some manipulation without cracking. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding with the next steps.
Seal and Protect
After painting your miniatures, apply a sealant to protect the paint job and prevent chipping and flaking. Choose a matte or flat acrylic spray sealant and apply two to three coats, allowing adequate drying time between each coat. This will create a protective barrier, enhancing the durability of your paint job.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of paint flaking on your plastic military figures, ensuring they remain in top condition for display or gentle handling.
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Frequently asked questions
To prevent paint from flaking, first wash the figures with detergent and warm water, then dry them. Next, paint the figures with a plastic-bonding paint such as Krylon Fusion and allow them to dry for at least 24 hours. After painting the figures, apply a coat of diluted PVA glue to toughen them up and prevent flaking. Finally, seal the figures with a matte or flat acrylic spray sealant, applying multiple coats for extra protection.
It is recommended to use acrylic craft paint rather than regular model acrylics, as craft paint tends to be thicker and more pigmented.
It is best to paint one color at a time, allowing each color to dry before moving on to the next. This helps to ensure a clean and precise finish.
The painting process itself can vary depending on the number of figures and the level of detail involved. However, it is recommended to allow the figures to dry for at least 24 hours after painting before applying a sealant.
