How to Paint Vinyl Models

Vinyl model kits look very realistic with the correct painting methods.

Vinyl models of cars, airplanes, action figures or other subjects are available in box kits. After the pieces are cut out and glued together, hobbyists usually paint them to make them look as realistic as possible. Finished vinyl models must be primed before painting so the paint adheres well. After painting with paint intended for vinyl models, the models should be sealed as well to preserve the colors, prevent chipping and add a texture to the surface.

Things You'll Need

• Primer
• Model paint
• Wide, flat brush
• Paper towel
• Fine-tipped brush
• Sealer

Instructions

1. Prime the model after all the glue is dry and any putty you have used is set. Spray the primer onto the model in an even coat and make sure to cover all the surfaces being painted. Do not spray too much primer or fine details will not show through.

   Use a white or light gray primer for most models. If the finished paint job will be very dark, however, you can use a dark gray or black primer instead.

   If you use a dark primer overall and you will use light paint only in certain small areas such as yellow clothing or light skin tones, spray just the small areas in light primer. This way, the light paint will not have to cover a dark primer in those places.

   Inspect the primer job closely and fill in any places you missed with the primer. If the model is not primed all over, the paint will not adhere to the vinyl.

   Allow the primer to dry for at least 24 hours. The primer will bond with the vinyl during this time and show fine details.

2. Apply a base coat of paint with a wide, flat brush. Use a different color of base coat for each area, depending on the colors. For example, use skin-tone paint on the face and a darker color of your choice for clothing. Allow the base coat to dry thoroughly.

3. Add shading to the base coat to make it look more three-dimensional. Highlight raised areas with a lighter shade of the same color as the base coat. Use the wide brush that has been wiped almost dry on a paper towel for this effect.

   Deepen recessed areas with a darker shade. Use very thin paint that will roll off the raised areas and pool in the recesses. Use a fine-tipped brush to move the paint around.

   Add a small bit of white to the base color to make lighter shades and add a small bit of a darker color to the base color for darker tones. Allow the shading paint to dry thoroughly.

4. Paint on small details, especially on faces. Eyes, gums and teeth usually need embellishment for a realistic look. Other detail areas may be car wheels or clothing items. Allow the detail paint to dry thoroughly.

5. Seal the paint job with aerosol sealer. Spray it on in an even coat. Glossy sealer can give the model a wet look while matte sealer will make the surface texture flatter. Allow this to dry thoroughly as well before handling the model.

Tips & Warnings

• Use paint specifically designed for vinyl models.

• Make sure the paint is thin enough so that no brush strokes are visible. Thin the paint with paint thinner for model paints.

• Use an off-white color for eyes and teeth. Pure white does not look natural.

• Test the primer on a scrap of vinyl from the model kit before using it on the finished model to make sure it will not react adversely to the vinyl.

• Always use primer, paint and sealer in a well-ventilated area. Fumes from these products can be toxic.

References

• Gremlins in the Garage: Getting Started with Vinyl Kits
• Starship Modeler: Building and Finishing Vinyl Figure Models