Omar Khalid
Painting soft plastic figures can be challenging due to the flexibility of the material and the paint's tendency to flake off. However, with the right techniques and materials, it is possible to achieve a successful paint job. The key steps include properly cleaning and preparing the surface, using an appropriate primer or undercoat, and sealing the paint with a suitable varnish. Some people recommend using diluted PVA wood glue as an undercoat to add rigidity and prevent paint cracking, while others suggest priming with artist's gesso before applying flexible acrylic varnish. The choice of brushes and paint colours also plays a role in achieving the desired effect, with darker shades applied first and lighter shades added at the centre for a good result.
Characteristics and Values Table for Painting Soft Plastic Figures
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Type | Polyethylene |
| Primer | Artists' gesso in black or white |
| Top Coat | Liquitex flexible acrylic varnish |
| Assembly Spray | Krylon matte varnish |
| Undercoat | Tamiya flat black, flat brown, or grey |
| Adhesive | PVA glue |
| Adhesive Alternative | Super glue |
| Wash | Hot water and detergent |
| Wash Alternative | Washing up liquid |
| Brush | Any good-quality brush |
| Technique | Paint all details with a very dark shade, then pass them again with a lighter shade at the centre |
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What You'll Learn
Use a good base to make paint stick to plastic
Painting soft plastic figures can be challenging as it is difficult to get the paint to stick to the figure and not flake off. The type of plastic used for these figures, polyethylene, is nearly impossible to glue. The flexibility of the material also puts the paint film under stress, which can ruin the paint job.
To overcome this, it is important to start with a good base that will help the paint adhere to the plastic surface. The first step is to wash the figures with soap and water to remove any residues from the manufacturing process. This will ensure that the paint has a clean surface to stick to.
The next step is to apply an undercoat or primer. A primer is crucial as it provides a base for the paint to adhere to and helps to create a more durable finish. However, it is important to choose the right type of primer for soft plastic figures. Unlike rigid plastic or metal figures, soft plastic figures require a flexible primer that can bend with the material. A regular spray primer will not work as it will crack easily.
There are primers specifically designed for use on soft plastics, such as Rust-Oleum for Plastics, which offers maximum adhesion. Another option is to use a thin coat of a spray-on adhesive as a base, which will help the paint stick to the plastic. It is important to let the adhesive dry completely before applying the paint.
In addition to a primer, some people also recommend using a light coat of PVA glue mixed with water as a base coat. This creates a slightly rough surface for the paint to grip onto, improving its adhesion. However, it is important to test this on a small area first to ensure that it does not affect the final paint colour.
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Wash the figures to remove mould release agent
When preparing soft plastic figures for painting, it is important to wash them beforehand to remove the mould release agent. This agent is used to help the plastic detach from the mould during the manufacturing process, but it can also prevent paint from adhering properly to the figure.
To effectively remove the mould release agent, start by rinsing the figures under running water to remove any surface residue. Then, put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands. Take a washcloth and fold it in half twice to create a compact pad. Pour a small amount of mineral spirits onto the washcloth, creating a circle of dampened area about the size of a drink coaster. Mineral spirits will help break down the oily residue left by the mould release agent.
Next, sprinkle a small amount of powdered laundry detergent onto the damp area of the washcloth. The detergent will provide additional cleaning power and help remove any stubborn residue. Close the washcloth and gently squeeze it to mix the mineral spirits and detergent together, creating a cleaning solution.
Now, you are ready to start cleaning the figures. Use the washcloth to gently rub the figures, paying close attention to any crevices or detailed areas. The detergent and mineral spirits mixture will help break down and remove the mould release agent. Continue rubbing until you have covered all surfaces of the figures. Finally, rinse the figures again under running water to remove any remaining soap powder and mineral spirits. Dry the figures completely with a new, clean washcloth.
By thoroughly washing the soft plastic figures and removing the mould release agent, you will create a clean surface that will be more receptive to paint. This will help ensure that your paint job adheres properly and lasts longer, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish for your figures.
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Use a coat of PVA glue to prevent paint cracking
Painting soft plastic figures can be challenging due to the flexibility of the material, which can cause the paint to crack and flake off easily. To prevent this issue, consider using a coat of PVA glue as a base before painting.
PVA glue, or white glue, can act as a primer for soft plastic, creating a flexible paint suit that moves with the figure and prevents chipping. Applying a coat of undiluted PVA glue before painting can help the paint adhere better to the plastic surface. Once the glue dries, you can apply your chosen paint directly over it.
It is important to note that while PVA glue can be effective as a base coat, it may not work for all types of soft plastics. Some plastics, like polythene, are challenging to glue and paint. Additionally, applying an even coat of PVA glue can be tricky, and you may need to experiment to achieve satisfactory results.
After painting your figure, you can further protect your work by sealing it with another coat of PVA glue. This topcoat will help lock in the paint and provide additional protection against chipping and cracking.
Keep in mind that proper preparation is key to ensuring your paint job holds up well. Before applying any primer or paint, wash the plastic figures with dish soap and warm water, then rinse and soak them in clean water. Allow them to dry thoroughly before proceeding with the PVA glue base coat.
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Prime with artist's gesso in black or white
When painting soft plastic figures, it is important to prime them first so that the paint adheres to the plastic. Gesso primer is a type of primer that can be used to prepare a surface for painting. It is available in black or white and can be applied with a brush or as a spray.
If you are using black gesso, you can apply it directly to your soft plastic figures. However, if you are using white gesso, you can either apply it directly or add black paint to it. Gesso is traditionally used to prepare a surface for oil paint, but it can also be used for acrylic paint. When used as a primer for acrylic paint, gesso provides a stable and receptive surface that enhances paint adhesion, longevity, and colour vibrancy.
To apply gesso with a brush, use a wide, flat brush and dip it into the gesso. Then, brush it onto the surface of your soft plastic figures, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly. The bigger the surface, the bigger the brush you will need. Depending on the consistency of your gesso, you may want to dilute it with water to create a smoother layer.
Before priming your soft plastic figures, be sure to wash them to remove any residues of the release agent used during the moulding process. This will help ensure that your paint job adheres properly and does not crack or flake off.
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Varnish with a matte spray
Painting soft plastic figures can be challenging due to the difficulty of getting paint to adhere to the flexible surface. Once you've assembled and washed your figures, the next step is to apply an undercoat to help the paint stick to the plastic more easily. After you've painted your figures, the final step is to seal your work with a varnish to protect it from damage and discolouration.
When it comes to varnishing, a matte spray is a popular choice for artists and miniature painters alike. A matte finish will reduce glare and soften colours, giving your figures a more natural and realistic appearance. It is also useful if you want to reduce the shine on a model.
There are several options available for matte spray varnishes. One highly recommended product is Testors Dullcote, which can be found in many chain art stores in the US, such as AC Moore, Michaels, and JOANN Fabrics, as well as in hobby stores that carry model cars and trains. However, some painters avoid spray can matt varnishes due to the risk of frosting, especially in cold, humid environments.
Alternative options include the Army Painter Matt Spray, which has been recommended by some miniature painters, and Winsor & Newton's varnish, which provides even coverage and works well on a variety of mediums. Golden's Archival varnish spray is another option, offering a durable and removable protective surface for your figures.
Remember to ensure your work is thoroughly dry before applying any varnish, and allow sufficient time for the varnish to dry completely after each application. These products are typically flammable, so adequate ventilation is crucial when working with them.
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Frequently asked questions
Before painting, wash the plastic figures with washing-up liquid to remove any residue from the mould. Then, apply an undercoat or primer to the figure, which will help the paint stick to the plastic.
Water-based acrylics are recommended for painting soft plastic figures.
To prevent paint from cracking, you can coat the figure with diluted PVA wood glue to give it more rigidity. You can also use a thick coat of varnish over the paint to achieve the same result.
