Tamiya Paint Techniques

By Society & Culture & Entertainment Last updated Sunday, April/14/2024

Preparation

As with any other paint process, preparation is key. Place about 1/4 cup of powdered detergent into a bowl of warm water. Dip a fine grit sandpaper into this mixture. Rub the entire surface of the model with the sandpaper to remove imperfections and rough areas. Don't worry about visible scratches. The paint will stick to the fine scratches better than to a smooth surface and fill in the small cracks. Allow the model to dry before moving on to the primer layer.

Shake the primer can before use for two or three minutes. Run some hot tap water over the can for two minutes to aid in the mixing process. Spray the surface of the model in quick bursts of paint to avoid making a thick layer. Several thinner layers will smooth out the model and achieve better coverage. Allow the paint to dry for an hour. Check for any visible imperfections. Sand the area with wet sandpaper if it is rough. Add another coat of primer to the surface and allow to dry.

Apply the base coat using Tamiya acrylic paints. If you use several colors, start with the lightest color and work your way to the darker colors. Allow each coat of paint to dry for two hours before applying the next coat. Add shading or highlighting by dipping the end of a brush into the paint. Wipe off most of the paint onto a paper towel. Gently brush the nearly-dry brush over the model to apply a light layer of paint for shade or highlighting. After applying all base coats, add details with small paintbrushes. Allow the entire model to dry for two hours before moving on to the finish coat.

The finish coat is important to prevent the paint from chipping or cracking. Add decals to the model before applying the finish coat. Use a Tamiya brand lacquer spray and spray the entire surface of the model with the clear paint. Use even strokes and try not to spray the paint for more than five seconds in each area. Allow the lacquer to dry for two hours, then apply a second coat. Allow the model to dry for 24 hours before using or storing the model.