has anybody painted these figures (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter tallyho
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johnnybach
Major General
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- Nov 24, 2010
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Hi chum - I haven't painted those particular items you have shown - but have painted plenty of other plastics - as shown below. One tip I could pass on to you, for you to consider perhaps, is that plastic figures are by their very nature, very light-weight. Consequently, they knock over very easily - which could cause paint damage due to their flexibility.
I have found that by cementing the figure to a largeish metal washer, the figure becomes much heavier - and at the base too. They therefore "stand up" much better - and also resist knocking over. It also gives you something much better to hold onto whilst painting. Here is a pic of some WWII Germans - opposite some Russian snipers that I gave the heavy base treatment to. They are all plastics - but once painted - difficult to know that. They are done in Humbrol enamels, by the way - then varnished.
Of course, you may not like the idea - but throw it in as something you might wish to consider, if you like. Best of luck with your project anyhow - and don't forget to show us your finished results - johnnybach^&grin
I have found that by cementing the figure to a largeish metal washer, the figure becomes much heavier - and at the base too. They therefore "stand up" much better - and also resist knocking over. It also gives you something much better to hold onto whilst painting. Here is a pic of some WWII Germans - opposite some Russian snipers that I gave the heavy base treatment to. They are all plastics - but once painted - difficult to know that. They are done in Humbrol enamels, by the way - then varnished.
Of course, you may not like the idea - but throw it in as something you might wish to consider, if you like. Best of luck with your project anyhow - and don't forget to show us your finished results - johnnybach^&grin
PJDeluhery
Corporal
- Joined
- Sep 11, 2009
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- 586
Over the years, I've done various kinds of plastic figures. Generally they paint up well. I've used acrylics, enamels and even oils.
Preparation is key. Be sure to wash the figures thoroughly in hot soapy water. I let them soak for 1/2 hour to remove all the mold release. Dry them thoroughly.
The main problem for me seems to be getting a good undercoat to give the color coat something to grab onto. One time-tested technique is to mix about a 1/3 - 1/2 portion of white glue (e.g. Elmers) into your primer. This helps the primer stick to the figure and provides "tooth" for the future coats of whatever paint you use. Be sure to let the primer dry thoroughly - I like to let it dry overnight. Then your painting should go smoothly.
Good luck.
Preparation is key. Be sure to wash the figures thoroughly in hot soapy water. I let them soak for 1/2 hour to remove all the mold release. Dry them thoroughly.
The main problem for me seems to be getting a good undercoat to give the color coat something to grab onto. One time-tested technique is to mix about a 1/3 - 1/2 portion of white glue (e.g. Elmers) into your primer. This helps the primer stick to the figure and provides "tooth" for the future coats of whatever paint you use. Be sure to let the primer dry thoroughly - I like to let it dry overnight. Then your painting should go smoothly.
Good luck.