Chloe Zhang
Painting plastic models is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be taken to the next level with the right tools and techniques. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned modeller, understanding the best practices for painting plastic models will ensure your creations look elegant and professional. From choosing the right type of paint to selecting the appropriate brushes and primers, there are several factors to consider when painting plastic models. In this discussion, we will explore the different types of paints available, the benefits of each, and provide tips for achieving a clean and precise paint application. We will also address common challenges and share expert techniques to help you master the art of painting plastic models.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint types | Acrylic, Enamel, Lacquer |
| Paint choice | Acrylic is the standard choice, easy to work with, dries fast, non-toxic, can be thinned with water |
| Paint choice | Enamel is toxic, must be used in well-ventilated areas, can achieve an airbrushed effect |
| Paint choice | Lacquer dries hard, has more colour variations, easy to polish, has a strong odour, must be used in outdoor/ventilated areas, wear a mask |
| Brush type | Synthetic brushes are better than natural or plastic, as they don't fray over time |
| Primer | Use primer if the model is made of multiple materials, or will be handled regularly |
| Primer | Use a white primer for light colours, grey for dark colours |
| Spray paint | Use quick bursts of colour to apply coats evenly |
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What You'll Learn
Acrylic paint is the standard choice for most modellers
Acrylic lacquer paints, in particular, are wonderful and expressive paints for hand brushing. Lacquers dry harder than acrylics and enamels, and they offer more colour variations and options for high-gloss finishes, especially for model cars. They are also easy to polish into a mirror-like finish. However, they have a strong odour and are recommended to be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
When using acrylics, it is important to note that they can leave brushstroke marks. To avoid this, use synthetic brushes, as cheap natural or plastic brushes tend to fray when used for a long time. Smaller synthetic brushes are also less likely to split when making smaller brush strokes, which is common when painting intricate details on plastic models.
While acrylics are a popular choice, it is worth noting that there is no single "best paint" for plastic models. The choice of paint depends on the modeller's skill, knowledge, and desired finish. Combining different paints and techniques can create interesting and unique finishes.
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Enamel paint can achieve an airbrushed effect but is toxic
Painting plastic models is a rewarding and fun hobby that can be taken to the next level with the right tools and techniques. When it comes to choosing the best paint for plastic models, there are a few options available, including acrylic and enamel paints. While acrylic paints are easy to work with and dry quickly, enamel paints offer a durable, glossy finish that can be challenging to achieve with other types of paint.
Enamel paint, known for its hard and glossy finish, can be used to achieve an airbrushed effect on plastic models. However, it is important to note that enamel paint is toxic and must be used with caution. When using enamel paint, it is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a protective mask to avoid inhaling harmful fumes. The paint thinner used with enamel paint is particularly dangerous and should not be ingested or inhaled directly.
To use enamel paint in an airbrush, it is essential to thin the paint to the correct viscosity. Enamel paint has a high viscosity, and if it is not thinned properly, it can clog the airbrush and result in inconsistent spray patterns. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the paint manufacturer's recommendations for thinning the paint and to use the correct paint thinner. Additionally, thorough cleaning of the airbrush after use is vital to ensure no paint residue remains.
While enamel paint can provide a beautiful finish, it is important to prioritise safety when working with this toxic substance. Always ensure the work area is well-ventilated, wear a protective mask, and avoid ingesting or inhaling the paint or thinner. By taking these precautions, you can safely achieve the desired airbrushed effect on your plastic models.
In conclusion, enamel paint can be a great choice for plastic models when thinned and applied correctly, but it is essential to prioritise safety measures to avoid any potential health risks associated with its toxicity.
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Lacquer paints dry harder than acrylics and enamels
Lacquer paints are known to dry harder than acrylics and enamels, making them the most durable option among the three. They are also the fastest to dry and are easy to polish into a mirror-like finish, making them ideal for model cars. Lacquers can be sanded, polished, and buffed to achieve superior shine and scratch resistance. They are also chemically able to adhere better than acrylics.
Lacquers are not suitable for hand painting due to their difficulty and risk of use. They are, however, excellent for airbrushing and have gained popularity among modellers in recent years due to their ease of use with high-quality thinners. Lacquers are the most toxic of the three paint types, and it is recommended to work with them in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask to avoid inhaling the fumes.
Acrylic paints, on the other hand, are water-based and easy to work with. They can be thinned with water and cleaned up easily. Acrylics are the most common type of paint used for plastic models and are known for their quick-drying properties, usually curing within 24 hours. However, they are more susceptible to scratches and may require a top coat for added protection.
Enamel paints are oil-based and durable but are toxic. They tend to dry rigid, making them suitable if you plan to handle your models frequently. Enamels are slower to dry, typically taking 2-3 hours, which allows for additional time for the paint to self-level and hide brush strokes. Enamel paints are often recommended for panel washes and achieving an airbrushed effect.
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Synthetic brushes are better than natural or plastic ones
Painting plastic models is a highly rewarding and fun process. It involves layering colours, working from the largest coats of paint down to the tiniest details. While there is no single "best paint" for plastic models, the standard choice is acrylic modelling paint, which is easy to work with and can be thinned with water. Enamel paint is another option, but it is toxic and requires good ventilation. Lacquer paints are also popular, especially in Japan, and can produce amazing results, but they have a strong odour and are toxic.
When it comes to brushes, synthetic ones are superior to natural or plastic ones for several reasons. Firstly, synthetic brushes are less expensive than high-quality natural hair brushes, which tend to be extremely pricey. Synthetic brushes are also versatile and suitable for various mediums, making them a great choice for artists of all skill levels. They hold and release paint more efficiently, providing excellent coverage with minimal brush marks. This is because the dye used on some synthetic brushes breaks down the surface of the strands, making them rougher and better at carrying paint. Synthetic brushes are also less likely to fray over time, unlike cheap natural or plastic brushes, which tend to fray with extended use. They hold their shape well and are less likely to split when making small brush strokes, a common requirement for painting plastic models. Additionally, synthetic brushes are more durable and less fragile than natural brushes, making them a better option when painting outdoors or travelling.
While natural brushes have their advantages, such as creating unique brushstroke marks that add character to artwork, they are not ideal for use with acrylic paints. They may also raise concerns about animal rights and environmental sustainability due to the use of animal hair. Therefore, synthetic brushes are a more ethical and cost-effective option that provides excellent results for painting plastic models.
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Primers are not always necessary
However, if your model is made solely of plastic and will not be handled extensively, you may choose to skip the primer step. Some modellers opt to forgo primer to avoid filling in intricate engravings and adding unnecessary thickness to their models. Others may choose to test their paints and primers on plastic spoons before deciding whether or not to use primer on their model. Ultimately, the decision to use primer depends on the specific situation and the modeller's preferences.
When it comes to paint types, acrylics are a popular choice for plastic models. They dry quickly, are non-toxic, and can be easily thinned with water. However, they may leave brushstroke marks. Enamels, on the other hand, can achieve a smooth, airbrushed effect but are toxic and require good ventilation. Lacquers are another option, offering a wide range of colour variations and high-gloss finishes. They dry harder than acrylics or enamels, making them easy to polish into a mirror-like finish. However, lacquers have a strong odour and should be used with caution, preferably outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, and with a respirator mask.
Regardless of the paint type chosen, it is important to take your time and work slowly when painting plastic models. Use a combination of brush and spray painting to layer colours, starting with the largest coats and working down to the smallest details. With practice, you can create beautiful, elegant models with or without primer.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic or enamel paint is typically used for plastic models. Acrylic paint dries fast and is non-toxic, but it can leave brushstroke marks. Enamel paint can achieve an airbrushed effect but is toxic and must be used in well-ventilated areas. Lacquer paint is also an option, but it has an extremely strong odour and is very toxic.
You can use an airbrush gun, brush, or spray can to paint your plastic models. The brush method is the cheapest and is best for beginners, while the spray can method is also suitable for beginners. The airbrush method is more advanced and requires practice to achieve effective gradients.
Wash your model with a small amount of dish soap and water to remove any mould release. Then, use a soft cloth to remove any remaining dirt and dust from the model. Tape all glued areas of the model before priming and painting so that they can be joined together without any problems. If your model is made of multiple materials, use a primer to help the paint adhere and to produce a uniform colour.
