Tamiya Primer
Tamiya are renowned for making some of the best model paints and this primer is no exception.
Tamiya Color
If you want a premium finish to your models, choose Tamiya as the base coat to your models.
Krylon Color
If you are on a strict budget or need to cover a large area, Krylon can be used if a great finish isn’t the priority.
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Table of Contents
Choosing the best spray paint can be difficult with so many to choose from.
When choosing the right paint to use on your models, consider the type of material your model is made from.
For example, if your model is made from polycarbonate, check to see if the paint you are using can be used for this.
What Is the Best Spray Paint for Plastic Models?
The first step to get great painting results is to make sure your process is correct.
The workflow consists of three steps:
1) Primer – Gets the model ready for painting by helping the paint stick to the model.
2) Base Coat – This is the main color applied to the model.
3) Top coat – Used to protect the model and give it a great lasting finish.
Below we’ve listed the best options for each.
Best Primer Spray Paint for Models
Having a good primer is crucial to achieving a great paint finish.
It helps set the model up for painting by helping the paint to adhere and can also help to smooth out the surface.
Tamiya are renowned for making some of the best model spray paint, and this primer is no exception.
A premium product as is excellent for painting models from RC cars to resin miniatures.
This primer flows well and provides great coverage. The cost is expensive, but you are getting a premium product.
We recommend this primer if wanting a professional finish to your models.
In a close second place is Mr. Hobby’s Mr. Surfacer.
Imported from Japan, this is a great primer for models – it drys quick and covers really well.
The only reason it is second to Tamiya is because of the smell. But if this doesn’t bother you, then we highly recommend this primer.
This SEM Flexible primer is just that – flexible to do a lot of different jobs.
We’d recommend getting this if you have a lot of other items to add primer to, not just models.
For example this is great for using on all types of plastics, be it household or automotive.
You may be wondering if you can you use Krylon spray paint on plastic models.
The answer is yes you can, but do not expect as good results as the others.
Use this if you have a strict budget or need to cover a large area with primer.
Best Base Spray Paint for Models
The base coat is the main paint you apply to your model.
Choosing the correct base has a huge impact on the quality of the your paint finish.
Again in first place is Tamiya.
Although the spray can is small it delivers a great finish. Very easy to work with and provides great coverage.
Mr. Hobby also do a base paint which is highly rated.
This dries very quickly and is very durable.
Even though this is a small can a little goes a long way.
Dries very quickly and gives a smooth finish.
This color is great for WWII olive drab green for military models.
Again a reminder that if you are on a budget and don’t need a perfect finish, then you can use Krylon.
Best Clearcoat Spray Paint for Models
Clear coat is what protects your model and gives it a fantastic finish.
If you are after the best gloss clearcoat then these are the options we would go for.
Great Tamiya paint as usual.
Covers very well but make sure you use thin layers in order to avoid the paint from dripping and avoid the ‘orange peel’ finish.
Mr. Super Clear Gloss is a very good clear coat. It gives a great sheen and if used correctly it gives a mirror like finish.
The only gripe is how bad it smells but it’s worth it for the results!
This Testors lacquer is easy to use and provides a great shine if care is taken.
Check the compatibility first to avoid any bubbles from forming.
As with using other spray paint, make sure to apply light coats and wait for it fully dry before applying another.
Wrap-Up: Which Model Spray Paint Did You Choose?
These spray paints should give you a good idea of what to use at each stage of the spray paint workflow.
You will now be able to choose one of the best spray paints for using on your plastic models.
The spray paint that you choose will depend upon your budget or how good you want your paint finish to look.
So, which model spray paint did you choose?
Let us know by leaving a comment below right now
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1 thought on “11 Best Spray Paints for Plastic Models (Reviewed)”
Tamiya is definitely the best. I like to decant the spray though. With a little adjustment, it makes great for airbrushing. And a little goes a long way. Primer and paint alike.