Ethan Clarke
Painting plastic miniatures is an enjoyable hobby for many, but it can be intimidating for beginners. The first step is to prepare the miniature for painting. This may involve washing the miniature with soap and water to remove any residue from the manufacturing process. The next step is to prime the miniature, which will help the paint adhere better. A flat or matte primer is recommended, as paint does not stick well to glossy surfaces. Once the primer is dry, the miniature can be painted using acrylic paints, which are commonly used for miniatures because they dry quickly and are easy to work with. Additional tools such as hobby knives, brushes, and wet palettes can also be used to achieve the desired results.
Characteristics and their Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Acrylic paints, Lacquer paints, Water-based products, Solvent-based paint |
| Paint brand | Floquil, Tamiya Acrylics, Testor, The Army Painter, Krylon |
| Tools | Hobby knife, Sprue cutter, Brushes, Paper towels, Wet palette, Primer |
| Preparation | Wash model parts with soap and water, remove from sprue, assemble miniature, use primer |
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What You'll Learn
- Wash plastic miniatures with dish soap and water to remove any residue
- Use a wet palette to stop paints from drying out and help with colour blending
- Use a primer to ensure paint adheres to the model
- Paint with lacquer for a quick-drying option that can be layered with varnish
- Use super glue to attach miniatures to non-plastic bases
Wash plastic miniatures with dish soap and water to remove any residue
When it comes to painting plastic miniatures, it is recommended to wash them with dish soap and water to remove any residue. This is an important step because it ensures that the paint will adhere properly to the miniature. If there is residue on the miniature, it can cause issues with the paint sticking, resulting in paint jobs that chip off easily or difficulty during the painting process.
To wash plastic miniatures, use a small amount of dish soap and a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the surfaces. Pay particular attention to areas that may have residual lubricants or oils, such as plastic frames or sprues, which are commonly found on plastic miniatures due to the manufacturing process. A toothbrush or scouring pad can be useful for this step. After scrubbing, rinse the miniature with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Once the miniature is rinsed, let it air dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This is crucial as any remaining moisture can affect the adhesion of the paint. It is also recommended to fully assemble the miniature before painting. This can be done using plastic cement or super glue. Assembling the miniature beforehand provides a better understanding of the model's overall appearance and size, allowing for the identification of any gaps or imperfections that need to be filled.
While washing plastic miniatures is not always necessary, it is often recommended as a precautionary measure. Some manufacturers, like Dystopian Wars, specifically suggest washing their plastic frames. Therefore, it is essential to check the packaging and instructions that come with the miniatures for any specific recommendations or requirements.
After the miniatures are clean and dry, the next step is to prime the surface. Priming provides a base for the paint to adhere to and helps create a more even and consistent finish. There are various primers available, such as The Army Painter Matte White Primer or matte grey primers from brands like Army Painter and Monument Hobbies. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and curing times.
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Use a wet palette to stop paints from drying out and help with colour blending
A wet palette is a useful tool to keep paints from drying out and can also help with blending colours. It is particularly useful for water-based paints such as acrylic paints, which are commonly used for painting miniatures. Acrylic paints dry quickly when left uncovered as the water in the paint evaporates, leaving the paint to harden. This can be frustrating, especially when you have spent time mixing the perfect colour.
A wet palette can be purchased or made at home. To make a DIY wet palette, you will need a Tupperware container, a towel, and some plastic or wax paper. First, dampen the towel (not too wet, but not fully wrung out either). Then, lay the towel as flat as possible at the bottom of the Tupperware container. Next, place a sheet of plastic or wax paper on top of the towel, and you're done! This will create a humid environment that will keep your paints from drying out.
There are also other ways to keep your paints from drying out. One method is to use a white china or ceramic plate, or a piece of glass with a sheet of white paper underneath. While painting, spray your acrylic paint lightly but regularly with clear water. If you need to take a break from painting, cover the remaining paint with a film of water. You can also put the paint in small plastic cups and set them in an airtight container. With this method, your paint can stay workable for weeks or even months.
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Use a primer to ensure paint adheres to the model
When painting plastic miniatures, it is important to use a primer to ensure the paint adheres to the model. Primers are a type of paint that "sticks" to plastic better than regular paints. Without a primer, the paint may not adhere properly to the plastic surface and could flake or peel off.
There are a few things to keep in mind when priming plastic miniatures. Firstly, it is important to clean the plastic surface before priming to remove any oils, fingerprints, or mould release agents that could prevent the primer from adhering properly. A simple rinse with soap and water is usually sufficient to clean the plastic. It is also important to ensure that there are no pockets of liquid left in any corners or crevices of the miniature after cleaning, as this can affect the adhesion of the primer.
When choosing a primer, look for a product specifically designed for use on plastic, such as an automotive primer like Plasti Coat. These primers are designed to adhere to plastic surfaces without causing orange peeling. Lacquer-based primers, such as Mr Hobby Surfacer or Tamiya Primer, are also a good option as they chemically bond with the plastic, creating a strong and durable finish. However, it is important to note that lacquers can be extremely odorous and proper ventilation is necessary when using these products.
Another option for priming plastic miniatures is to use an acrylic lacquer paint as a primer. These paints can chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface, creating a durable finish. However, if you plan to use an acrylic paint as your top coat, it is important to test the compatibility of the primer and paint, as lacquer-based products can sometimes cause acrylic paints to crinkle.
Once you have chosen a primer, it is important to apply it in thin, light coats to ensure complete coverage without losing any surface detail. You can use a rattle can or spray to apply the primer, and you may need to apply several coats for full coverage. After the primer has dried, you can then apply your chosen paint colour.
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Paint with lacquer for a quick-drying option that can be layered with varnish
Painting plastic miniatures can be an intimidating process for newcomers, but lacquer paints can be a great option if you're looking for a quick-drying, versatile finish. Lacquer paints have a super-fast drying time, allowing you to move on to the next step of your project without a long wait. They are also incredibly versatile, as they can be layered with clear coats and varnish or even sanded back if you spot any imperfections. Lacquer paints can be used as primers because they chemically etch themselves into the plastic surface, resulting in a durable finish.
However, it's important to note that not all lacquer paints are suitable for plastic miniatures. Some lacquer paints may react with the plastic, causing melting. To prevent this, it's recommended to use a primer, such as an interior latex primer, before applying lacquer paint. This will create the correct surface for the lacquer to adhere to without damaging the plastic.
When working with lacquer paints, it's essential to prioritize your health and safety. These paints are often solvent-based and highly toxic, so precautions such as wearing a respirator mask with organic solvent filters and ensuring adequate ventilation in your workspace are crucial.
Additionally, consider the benefits of acrylic paints, which are commonly used for painting miniatures. Acrylics are easy to work with and dry quickly. They are a popular choice for miniature painting and can be used to achieve a variety of effects.
Ultimately, the choice between lacquer and acrylic paints depends on your personal preference, the specific project, and the type of plastic you are working with. Both options have their advantages, and experimenting with different paints can help you find the best technique for bringing your miniatures to life.
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Use super glue to attach miniatures to non-plastic bases
When it comes to attaching miniatures to non-plastic bases, super glue is a popular choice. It is important to use a good quality super glue to ensure a strong bond. While super glue can be effective, it can also be messy and difficult to remove from the skin. To avoid these issues, an alternative adhesive called E-6000 is recommended by some hobbyists. This glue creates a flexible bond, reducing the likelihood of breakage. It is also easier to remove, as it can be peeled off once dry.
If you choose to use super glue, it is important to be cautious and avoid getting it on your hands or other surfaces. It can be challenging to remove, and it may require a specialised remover that can be harsh on the skin. To achieve a strong bond with super glue, you can apply it to the miniature parts and use an accelerator spray on the joint area. This will ensure that the glue sets properly within 10 to 15 seconds, creating a tight bond.
When using super glue to attach miniatures to non-plastic bases, it is essential to consider the size and weight of the miniature. For smaller or lighter models, plastic glue can be effective, but for larger or heavier pieces, super glue is generally recommended. Additionally, if the miniature has only one contact point, super glue is the preferred option. It is worth noting that super glue can cloud up clear plastic if used in large quantities or if left to dry in enclosed spaces. To prevent this, ensure that the area is well-ventilated, and consider blowing on the glued area to aid in proper drying.
Some manufacturers offer separate bases for their miniatures, recognising that a stable base is crucial, especially for wargaming or role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Games Workshop, for example, offers "Slottabases", while Reaper sells affordable packs of 25 miniature bases. These separate bases can provide a more secure foundation for your miniatures, reducing the likelihood of them tipping over.
In summary, when attaching miniatures to non-plastic bases, super glue is a widely used option, but it is important to consider its limitations and potential messiness. For a more flexible and removable bond, E-6000 glue is an excellent alternative. Additionally, the size and weight of the miniature, as well as the number of contact points, will influence your choice of adhesive. Finally, investing in separate, stable bases can enhance the stability of your miniatures, especially for gaming purposes.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a variety of paints that can be used on plastic miniatures. Lacquer paints are a good option as they dry quickly, can be layered with clear coats and varnish, and can be sanded back if needed. Acrylic paints are also a good option, especially for beginners as they are water-based.
First, determine if the miniature needs to be washed. If there is residual lubricant or oil from the manufacturing process, it is a good idea to wash the miniature with dish soap and water, and scrub with a toothbrush or scouring pad. Then, rinse and let it dry. Next, attach the miniature to its base using plastic cement or super glue. Finally, prime your miniature with a flat or "matte" primer, which will give the paint a better surface to stick to.
A thin coat of paint is best when painting plastic miniatures, as it will help you control how much paint you are applying and will give a slightly rough surface for the paint to stick to. Spray primer in a well-lit area so you can easily see the light reflecting off the portion of the miniature you are priming.
