Chloe Zhang
Painting plastic model soldiers is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can be a little tricky. Whether you're painting Napoleonic French in blue or British in red, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure your soldiers look their best. Firstly, it's important to prepare your soldiers by washing them with soap and water to remove any mould release agents. Once they're clean and dry, you can apply a primer – this will help the paint adhere better and create a more uniform finish. When it comes to paint, opt for water-based acrylics or craft paint, which tend to have more pigment. Paint one colour at a time, allowing each to dry before moving on to the next. Finally, seal your work with a spray sealant to protect your paint job from cracking and chipping.
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What You'll Learn
Wash and dry models before painting
To ensure that your paint adheres properly to your plastic model soldiers, it is important to wash and dry the models before painting. This process will help to remove any dirt, dust, or oils that may be present on the surface of the plastic, which can interfere with the paint's adhesion.
One recommended method is to use a mild detergent, such as washing-up liquid, and a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the models. This will help to remove any release agents or other contaminants that may be present. Be sure to rinse the models thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing to remove any soap residue.
After washing, it is important to allow the models to dry completely before beginning the painting process. You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer on a low setting or by placing the models in a well-ventilated area. Ensure that the models are completely dry to the touch before proceeding.
Some modellers choose to use a primer or undercoat on their plastic models before painting. This step is not always necessary but can help to improve the adhesion of the paint and provide a more consistent finish. If you decide to use a primer, be sure to select a product specifically designed for use on plastic models and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.
Once the models are clean, dry, and primed (if desired), you can begin the painting process. It is important to use paints specifically designed for plastic models, as other types of paint may not adhere properly or may damage the plastic. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and allow each layer of paint to dry completely before adding additional coats or details.
By taking the time to properly wash and dry your plastic model soldiers before painting, you can ensure that your finished product will look its best and that your paint job will be long-lasting.
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Use a primer
Using a primer is an important step in painting plastic model soldiers. A primer will help the paint adhere to the plastic and provide a more even surface for the paint to stick to. It is especially important if you are using a light-coloured paint on a dark-coloured plastic soldier, as it will help the paint to show up better.
There are a few different types of primers that you can use. One option is to use a spray primer. Spray primers are quick and easy to apply, and they provide a smooth, even finish. Make sure to follow the instructions on the primer and use it in a well-ventilated area. Line up the plastic soldiers on a board, spray from above, then let them dry before turning them over and spraying from below to get full coverage.
Another option is to use a primer designed specifically for plastics, such as those used for outdoor furniture or car components. These primers are formulated to adhere well to plastic surfaces and can provide a durable finish. You can also experiment with different colours of primer, such as flat black, brown, or grey, depending on the desired final look.
In addition to a primer, some people also recommend using a coat of diluted PVA glue on the plastic soldiers before painting. This can help to toughen them up and reduce flaking and chipping, especially if the painted figures will be handled frequently. However, it is important to note that this may not completely prevent flaking, and it is always recommended to supervise young children when playing with painted toys to avoid any accidental paint ingestion.
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Choose paint type
When it comes to choosing the type of paint for your plastic model soldiers, there are a few options to consider. Some people prefer to use craft paint, as it tends to be thicker and more pigmented than regular model acrylics. This can result in a more efficient painting process, as you may not need to apply as many coats. Additionally, craft paint is typically non-toxic, making it a safer option if the models are intended for children.
On the other hand, dedicated model paints, such as water-based acrylics, can also be used. These paints are designed specifically for the task and can provide a durable finish. It is recommended to apply a primer first, to ensure the paint adheres well and to achieve a homogeneous finish. Spray primers can be convenient for this purpose, as they allow for even coverage on all surfaces of the model.
Some modellers choose to use enamels as an undercoat, as the solvent in the enamel can break down any release agents remaining on the plastic from the moulding process. This can help improve paint adhesion. Others opt for a simple wash with washing-up liquid and water to remove any release agents and prepare the surface for painting.
To add further durability and protect your paintwork, you may consider using a sealant or varnish once the paint has fully cured. A matte or flat acrylic spray sealant can help prevent cracking and chipping, especially if multiple coats are applied. Alternatively, diluted PVA glue can be applied over the paint to toughen up the models and reduce flaking.
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Apply paint
When it comes to applying paint to your plastic model soldiers, there are a few different approaches you can take. Some people prefer to use craft paint, as they tend to be thicker with more pigment than regular model acrylics. You can also use water-based acrylics. If you're looking for an efficient way to paint a large number of soldiers, you might opt for spray paint.
Before you begin painting, make sure you have a few good-quality brushes in a variety of sizes to help you reach all the nooks and crannies of the models. It's also important to prepare the soldiers by washing them with soap and water to remove any release agents from the mould. Let them dry completely before you start painting.
When you're ready to paint, start by applying one colour at a time, allowing each colour to dry before moving on to the next. Depending on the colour of the plastic and the paint you've chosen, you might need to apply a couple of coats of paint for full coverage. Take your time and be careful not to rush this process.
Once you've finished painting all the details and colours, let the paint dry for at least 24 hours. After that, you can apply a sealant to protect your work. A matte or flat acrylic spray sealant will help prevent cracking and chipping. For extra protection, you can apply a second or even a third coat of sealant after the first coat has dried.
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Seal with varnish
Sealing your painted plastic model soldiers with varnish is an optional but recommended step, as it adds a protective layer that prevents chipping and paint from rubbing off. Varnishing is the final step in the miniature painting process, and it elevates the quality and longevity of your work.
There are different types of varnish finishes, such as gloss, satin, and matt. The choice of varnish finish will depend on the desired look and effect you want to achieve. A gloss varnish can add a shiny, reflective finish to your model soldiers, making them appear more vibrant and eye-catching. However, it is important to note that a gloss finish may not be suitable if you plan to do a lot of blending or fancy techniques on the armour, as these details may get lost in the reflection.
A satin varnish is a good middle ground, offering some sheen without the intense reflectivity of a gloss finish. It is a versatile option that works well for most miniatures and is particularly effective in highlighting texture and depth. On the other hand, a matt varnish removes the shine from the paint and creates a flat, matt finish. It is ideal for achieving a realistic, non-glossy finish, especially for historical miniatures or models where you want to avoid reflections in photography.
When applying varnish, you can use a brush-on varnish, which is applied by hand and gives you greater control over the application. It allows you to pick out different parts of your miniature and apply different types of finishes. For example, you can use a gloss varnish on a soldier's armour and a matt varnish on the rest of the model. Alternatively, you can use a varnish spray, which is quicker but may require mounting the miniature on a piece of cardboard or wood to facilitate easy handling. Remember to test your varnish on a small area or an old miniature first to ensure that it aligns with the desired look and effect.
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Frequently asked questions
Before painting, wash the soldiers with water and washing-up liquid to remove the release agent from the mould. Then, make sure they are completely dry before you start painting.
You can use craft paint or model acrylics. Some people also use enamel or varnish.
You can use a matte or flat acrylic spray sealant to seal the paint. Allow the soldiers to dry for at least 24 hours before sealing. For extra protection, apply a second or third coat of sealant.
