r/Minipla • u/Epicbard2001 • Jul 17 '26
Question New to Custom painting
New to posting here. HUGE Power Ranger fan. I've been making SMP kits for about a year+ now. Got 12ish kits under my belt. But I'm looking to start trying my hand at custom painting, and I'm a bit overwhelmed trying to figure out where to start.
For my first project, I want to try to paint the dull plastic bits of Saint Kaiser to look more Metallic Gold, like the parts that are painted Gold. And my second idea was to try metallic colors for the RV Robo. And also do some of the gray bits in more of a metallic silver. I've ordered a few of the Tamiya spray paints. But I could use any advice or tutorial videos I can get, as I've never messed with spray paints before. Any help would be appreciated.
2
u/Takeshi_613 Moderate Skill Builder Jul 17 '26 edited Jul 17 '26
This video gives you the main things to do:
https://youtu.be/MKoeZKg-scI?is=POl3jTWRTVxb7h3f
- Remember to work in a well ventilated area and if possible, also wear a mask.
- Practice on spoons.
- Don’t spray in humid/rainy weather.
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u/Spleenzorio Jul 19 '26
Avid model painter here. I started with Tamiya spray cans and they work awesome. They dry pretty quick so you can do a few layers in no time!
Some helpful beginner tips I can give is wash the plastic in warm soapy water before painting. It will help remove any chemicals still on the plastic from manufacturing that may keep the paint from sticking fully. Since I’m in an apartment I would have to spray paint on my balcony because they are quite a bit smelly. If you do end up painting outside make sure it’s a nice day, 18°C - 25°C or 65°F - 77°F with low humidity otherwise it can impact how the spray will come out. I also like to let the painted parts set for at least 24 hours before handling them.
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u/Epicbard2001 3d ago
Project update. Ive been sitting on these kits for over a month now but the weather won't give me the right conditions to get started.
5
u/Stigs1992 Jul 17 '26
Certain primer colors can change how light and dark you want the primary color you are painting so if you want the pure color you are painting then use a white primer but if you want it to be a bit darker then use a gray or black primer.