Maya Ellison
Before painting plastic models, it is important to wash them to ensure the paint adheres well and does not come off easily. This is because plastic models often have a release agent on the mould, which can cause paint to come off with a simple scrape of a fingernail. To wash plastic models, you can use a simple method of dish soap and water or an isopropyl alcohol wipe-down. Alternatively, you can soak the models in rubbing alcohol overnight, but be sure to handle them with tongs as the paint will become sticky.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to wash | Before priming and painting |
| Reason | To remove release agent, dust, grease, and other contaminants |
| Washing methods | Dish soap and water, isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol |
| Handling | Avoid touching surfaces to be painted |
| Drying | Leave overnight |
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What You'll Learn
- Degrease the model to remove surface dust and factory/handling contamination
- Use dish soap and water or an isopropyl alcohol wipe
- Avoid dunking the model in water to prevent liquid from getting inside
- Scrub the model with a toothbrush after soaking in Dettol or alcohol
- Leave the model to dry before painting
Degrease the model to remove surface dust and factory/handling contamination
Degreasing your plastic model before painting is an important step to ensure the paint adheres properly to the model. This process helps to remove surface dust and any factory or handling contamination. Here are some detailed instructions on how to degrease your model effectively:
Firstly, it is important to understand the purpose of degreasing. While factory contamination can be a factor, the primary reason for degreasing is to remove any oils or grease transferred to the model during handling. These contaminants can interfere with the adhesion of the paint, causing it to peel or flake off easily.
To degrease your plastic model, start by gathering the necessary materials. You will need a mild detergent or dish soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Some modellers also recommend using isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol for a more thorough clean. These substances are effective at breaking down oils and grease.
Begin by mixing a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water. Use the soft-bristled brush or cloth to gently scrub the surface of the model. Pay close attention to areas that have been handled frequently, as these are more likely to have oil or grease buildup. Ensure that you scrub gently to avoid damaging the model's surface.
If you choose to use isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, apply it to a clean cloth and wipe down the model's surface. These substances are strong solvents, so be cautious and avoid prolonged contact with the model. Additionally, always work in a well-ventilated area when using these chemicals.
After degreasing, thoroughly rinse the model with warm water to remove any soap residue. Use a clean, dry cloth to gently pat the model dry. It is important to ensure that the model is completely dry before proceeding with the painting process.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove surface dust and factory/handling contamination from your plastic model. Degreasing helps create a clean surface for the paint to adhere to, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting paint job. Remember to handle the model carefully and avoid touching the surfaces that will be painted to minimise the risk of contamination.
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Use dish soap and water or an isopropyl alcohol wipe
To prepare your plastic model for painting, it is important to wash it first. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn't come off easily. One effective method for washing plastic models is to use dish soap and water or an isopropyl alcohol wipe. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Dish Soap and Water:
- Start by gathering mild dish soap and a container of warm water. Fill the container with enough water to submerge the plastic model.
- Dip a soft cloth or brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the model. Pay attention to nooks and crannies, as these areas can accumulate dust and oil.
- Rinse the model with clean water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that no liquid remains on the model, as it could ruin your paint job.
- Allow the model to air-dry completely before proceeding to the painting step.
Isopropyl Alcohol Wipe:
- Alternatively, you can use isopropyl alcohol wipes, which are effective in removing grease and surface prep dust.
- Wipe down the entire surface of the plastic model with the isopropyl alcohol wipe. Ensure that you cover all areas, including crevices and small details.
- Allow the model to air-dry completely. Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly, so it shouldn't take long to dry.
By following these steps, you'll be able to properly clean your plastic model and create a surface that is ready for painting. Remember to handle the model carefully, as excessive handling can add oils that will need to be removed before painting.
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Avoid dunking the model in water to prevent liquid from getting inside
When preparing a plastic model for painting, it is important to wash the model to remove any mould release agent, factory contamination, or dust and grease from your handling. While dunking the model in water is a quick and simple way to do this, it is important to avoid doing so to prevent liquid from getting inside the model.
If your model has small openings or intricate parts, dunking it in water can cause liquid to become trapped inside. This can lead to several issues, including the growth of mould or bacteria, which can damage the model over time. Additionally, if liquid gets inside the model and is not completely dried before painting, it can cause the paint to bubble or peel, resulting in an uneven and unsatisfactory finish.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to wash plastic models using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild detergent or dish soap. Gently scrub the model with the soapy water, taking care to reach all surfaces. Pay particular attention to areas that are difficult to reach, as these may have accumulated more dust or grease.
After scrubbing the model, rinse it thoroughly with clean, non-soapy water. Use a gentle stream of water or a damp cloth to avoid getting water inside the model. Finally, place the model on a towel or absorbent surface to air dry completely before proceeding with the painting process.
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Scrub the model with a toothbrush after soaking in Dettol or alcohol
When washing plastic models before painting, it is important to scrub the model with a toothbrush after soaking it in Dettol or alcohol. This step ensures that any remaining paint residue, release agents, or contaminants are removed, providing a clean surface for the new paint application.
Firstly, prepare a solution of either Dettol or alcohol in a container. Dettol is a powerful disinfectant that can effectively break down and remove paint. Alternatively, isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, with a concentration of 99.9%, can be used as a potent solvent to dissolve paint. Ensure you are wearing protective gloves and working in a well-ventilated area when handling these substances.
Submerge the plastic model in the chosen solution and allow it to soak for a sufficient amount of time. For Dettol, it is recommended to soak the model for a day or so. This process will help loosen the paint and make it easier to remove. Be cautious when handling the model after soaking, as the paint may have become sticky or slimy.
After removing the model from the Dettol with tongs, immediately transfer it to a container of alcohol to stop the paint from becoming sticky. Leave the model in the alcohol for a few hours. This step will further break down any remaining paint residue.
Finally, use a toothbrush to gently scrub the model. The toothbrush provides an effective way to reach intricate details and small crevices. Scrub until all the paint is removed, and the surface of the plastic model is clean and ready for priming and painting. Remember to rinse the model thoroughly with water after scrubbing to remove any detergent or solvent residue.
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Leave the model to dry before painting
Leaving your plastic model to dry before painting is a crucial step in the model-making process. This step ensures that your model is free of any remaining residue from the washing process and helps to create a smooth and even surface for painting. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through this process:
After you have washed your plastic model with dish soap and water, or an isopropyl alcohol wipe-down, gently shake the model to remove any excess liquid. Use a soft, dry cloth to pat the model dry. It is important to be gentle during this step to avoid damaging any intricate details on the model. Ensure that you dry all the crevices and corners of the model. You can use a cotton swab or a small, soft-bristled brush to reach these areas gently.
Next, place the model on a flat, dry surface and allow it to air-dry completely. This step may take several hours, depending on the size and complexity of your model. It is important to be patient and not rush this process, as any remaining moisture can affect the adhesion of the paint. You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer on a low setting, holding it at a safe distance from the model to avoid any potential damage.
While the model is drying, it is important to avoid touching or handling it. Oils from your skin can transfer to the model's surface, creating a barrier that may affect the paint adhesion. If you need to handle the model, consider wearing clean cotton gloves to protect it from any oils or dirt. Additionally, ensure that your workspace is clean and dust-free to prevent any debris from settling on the model's surface during the drying process.
Once the model is completely dry, it is essential to inspect it for any remaining residue or dust. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any particles that may have settled during the drying process. After this final inspection, your plastic model is ready for the painting process. Remember to handle it with care and avoid touching the surfaces to be painted, as oils from your skin can affect the paint adhesion.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, always wash plastic models before painting them. This is to remove any release agent on the model, which can cause paint to come off easily.
You can wash plastic models with dish soap and water, or an isopropyl alcohol wipe down. If you want to be thorough, you can leave the model in rubbing alcohol overnight after washing it.
If your model is already painted and the paint is chipping, you can put the model in Dettol for a day or so, then scrub off the paint with a toothbrush. You can also use 99.9% rubbing alcohol. Be warned, this will melt the paint into a sticky substance, so you will need to immediately put the model into rubbing alcohol after removing it from the Dettol to prevent a mess.
To prevent paint from chipping, you can varnish your model.
