Benefits of Acrylic Paints for Plastic Models

Acrylic paints have revolutionised the art of painting plastic models, offering a plethora of advantages to hobbyists and professionals alike. This blog post delves into what acrylic paints are, their distinct benefits for plastic models, and essential tips for their effective use.

What are Acrylic Paints?

Acrylic paints are a versatile and fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion. They are water-soluble but become water-resistant when dry. Due to their chemical composition, they adhere well to a wide range of surfaces, making them ideal for plastic models.

Key Characteristics

• Fast Drying: Acrylics dry quickly, allowing for rapid layering and blending.
• Water-Based: They can be thinned with water, making them easy to clean.
• Vibrant Colours: Acrylics retain their colour brightness even after drying.

Advantages of Acrylic Paints for Plastic Models

1. Superior Adhesion

Acrylic paints adhere excellently to plastic surfaces, ensuring that your model retains its painted finish for longer periods.

2. Reduced Toxicity

Unlike enamel paints, acrylics are less toxic and fume-free, making them safer for indoor use and suitable for all ages.

3. Easy Clean-Up

Water solubility means brushes and tools can be cleaned with water, simplifying the post-painting clean-up process.

4. Quick Drying Time

The rapid drying feature of acrylics facilitates faster project completion. It also allows for quicker layering without long waiting periods.

5. Colour Variety

A wide range of vibrant colours are available, and acrylics can be easily mixed to create custom shades.

6. Durability

Once dry, acrylic paint forms a flexible, water-resistant finish that withstands handling and displays well.

Tips for Using Acrylic Paints on Plastic Models

Preparing the Surface

• Clean Thoroughly: Ensure the model's surface is clean and free of oils or dust.
• Priming: Applying a primer can enhance paint adhesion and coverage.

Painting Techniques

• Thinning the Paint: Thin acrylic paint with water or a dedicated thinner for a smoother application.
• Layering: Build up thin layers of paint to achieve depth and shading.
• Blending: Blend colours while wet to create smooth transitions.

Finishing Touches

• Sealing: Use a clear sealant to protect the painted surface and enhance longevity.
• Detailing: Utilise fine brushes for intricate details to bring your model to life.

Conclusion

Acrylic paints offer an excellent medium for painting plastic models. Their ease of use, quick drying times, and range of vibrant colours make them a top choice for hobbyists. By following these tips and techniques, one can achieve professional-looking results that bring plastic models to life.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced modeller, the versatility of acrylic paints can elevate your craft to new heights, making your plastic model projects more enjoyable and rewarding.

View our range: including our selection of Tamiya paints  and Revell paints.