Ethan Clarke
When it comes to plastic model kits, a primer is essential to ensure a smooth and durable finish. The best primer for plastic models will offer strong adhesion, coverage, self-levelling, and durability. While some modellers recommend Tamiya primer for its ease of use, others prefer the finish of Badger Stynylrez, a thick primer that requires an airbrush with a 0.5mm needle and 30-40 psi for optimal application. Stynylrez is known for its excellent adhesion, fast-drying time, and ability to smooth over imperfections. However, Vallejo primers, including their polyurethane airbrush and white surface primer, have received mixed reviews due to issues with clogging and paint peeling. For those using an airbrush, thinning the primer may be necessary, and some modellers recommend Mr. Surfacer 1500 thinned with Mr Levelling Thinner for best results. Ultimately, the best primer for plastic models will depend on individual techniques and preferences, but with the right tools and preparation, a smooth finish is achievable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Vallejo, Mr. Hobby, Tamiya, Lifecolor, Badger Stynylrez, Mr. Color |
| Airbrush | Vallejo polyurethane primer clogs the airbrush, use a 0.05mm needle at 30-40 psi for Badger Stynylrez |
| Thinner | Vallejo and Mr. Surfacer require thinning, Lifecolor has its own thinner |
| Spray can | Tamiya FSP or Mr. Surfacer are available in spray cans |
| Adhesion | Badger Stynylrez has excellent adhesion |
| Coverage | Badger Stynylrez has excellent coverage, except for the white color |
| Self-leveling | Badger Stynylrez has good self-leveling properties |
| Durability | Badger Stynylrez is very durable |
| Colors | Badger Stynylrez comes in black, gray, white, and rust |
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Badger Stynylrez
Stynylrez is known for its excellent adhesion, coverage, self-levelling, and durability. It is a fast-drying primer that dries level and smooth, making it easy to identify and fix any imperfections in the model. It is also tough and durable, ensuring that paint adheres well and does not peel or lift, even when using masking tape.
When using Badger Stynylrez, it is important to note that the primer is thick and should not be thinned. Badger recommends using an airbrush with a 0.5mm needle at 30-40 psi for best results. It is also a good practice to clean the airbrush tip frequently with a cotton swab or towel due to its fast-drying properties.
While Stynylrez is a popular choice for many modellers, there are a few negative reviews. Some users have experienced issues with the primer not spraying and clogging their airbrush, even when thinning it with IPA. However, the majority of reviews highlight the positive attributes of Stynylrez, making it a trusted primer option for both professionals and beginners.
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Tamiya primer
When it comes to plastic model primers, Tamiya primer is a popular choice among hobbyists. Tamiya offers two types of fine surface primers: the light grey primer and the white primer. Both primers are ideal for preparing plastic model parts made of ABS and styrene plastic for painting. The light grey primer is perfect for dark colour applications, while the white primer is suitable for light colours.
Tamiya's surface primers have excellent adhesion to plastic surfaces and can even fill in small scratches and imperfections. This is a significant advantage, as it creates a smooth base for painting, ensuring a high-quality finish. Additionally, the primers can be wet sanded before applying paint, allowing for an even smoother surface. Each can contain 180ml of primer, which is enough for multiple projects.
When using the Tamiya primer, it is essential to follow the recommended preparation steps. The surface to be primed should be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust, debris, or grease. This ensures that the primer adheres properly and provides a durable base for painting.
Compared to other primers, Tamiya primer stands out for its ease of use and effectiveness. Some users have described it as "practically foolproof," highlighting its user-friendly application process. The primer goes on smoothly and dries quickly, making it a convenient choice for model builders.
While Tamiya primer is a reliable option, it's worth noting that some modellers prefer primers like Badger Stynylrez for their excellent adhesion, coverage, self-levelling, and durability. However, Tamiya primer remains a trusted and widely-used product among hobbyists, offering a simple and effective solution for priming plastic models.
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Vallejo primer
The Vallejo surface primer is a popular choice for painting miniatures and plastic models. It can be applied using a brush or an airbrush and is known for its smooth and even application, preserving the fine details of the model. When applied with a brush, it self-levels, leaving no brush marks and resulting in a smooth coat. The primer dries into a stretched-out, durable layer, creating an even homogenized surface. This makes it possible to use liberal applications without obscuring the details of the model.
When using an airbrush, it is recommended to use a standard size 0.3mm nozzle or larger to avoid clogging. Vallejo primers are also available in spray cans, which are not recommended by some modellers due to the risk of melting plastic and ruining paint or decals.
While the Vallejo primer is durable, it is not as resilient to abrasion as an enamel aerosol primer. It dries matte/satin and is not sticky or tacky to the touch. It is resistant to soap and water but can be removed with high-proof alcohol or isopropanol with some effort.
Some users have reported issues with the Vallejo primer, including clogging and a tendency to dry soft and rubbery. However, thinning the primer with a thinner and flow improver is recommended to improve its performance.
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Mr. Surfacer
When using Mr. Surfacer with an airbrush, it is recommended to thin it with a thinner and use a respirator. Some users have reported that it can be tricky to use with an airbrush, and it may require some experimentation. A ratio of 1:1 with Mr. Colour Levelling Thinner is recommended by some users.
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Mr. Hobby 1500
When using Mr. Hobby 1500, it is recommended to thin the primer with a product like Mr. Color Leveling Thinner or Mr. Levelling Thinner. This helps to ensure a smooth application and allows for light coats, which are ideal for dark paint jobs. While the primer itself is thick, thinning it makes it easier to spray and allows for better control during application.
However, one drawback of Mr. Hobby 1500 is its strong odour, which requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during application. Additionally, the dark colour of the primer can make it slightly more challenging to identify imperfections on the model's surface compared to lighter-coloured primers.
Overall, Mr. Hobby 1500 is a highly regarded primer for plastic models, offering a smooth finish, strong adhesion, and time-saving benefits due to its fast-drying capabilities. It is a popular choice among hobbyists and is widely recommended for achieving high-quality results.
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Frequently asked questions
Badger Stynylrez is a popular choice for priming plastic models. It has excellent adhesion, coverage, self-levelling properties, and durability. It comes in a range of colours, including black, grey, white, and rust.
Other options include Tamiya primer, Lifecolor, Vallejo polyurethane airbrush primer, and Mr. Hobby 1500.
It is recommended to avoid DIY store primers in spray cans as they may contain chemicals that can melt the plastic or ruin the paint/decals.
For Badger Stynylrez, it is recommended to use an airbrush with a .05mm needle at 30-40 psi. It is also suggested to wipe down the model with isopropyl alcohol before priming to remove any dust, debris, or grease.
