What's the best paint to use for customs?

[Sgt. Kayfabe]

Ever since I joined this site and seen some customs posted I have had the itch to give it a try. So I bought some peg warmers and paint for practice. My only problem is that the paint that I bought looks like crap on the figures. Anyone have any reccomendations on what kind of paint and where to get it?
Thanks.

[kissmekillme]

Any acrylic paint will do, just stay far away from enamels. I've used everything from cheap 99cent craft paint from Wal-Mart to dedicated modeling paints, and honestly if you apply them properly there's not a load of difference. The more expensive paints have a higher pigment load so their colours can be brighter and when watered for a wash or glaze they separate less, but you probably won't need that.

The key to proper painting is more in your application. Water your paint and apply it in thin layers, about the quality of milk. Also, prepare your surfaces by washing in warm, soapy water to remove any residual mold release oils.

[amaro]

It kinda depends on if you want to pose them or play with them?

For display acrylics are the best. But water down the paint and apply in layers, patience. The Four Horsemen use cell animation paint. They use an airbrush to apply, but the colors are great and super flat.

For play you can use some spray paints like Tamiya brand.
Those spray paints apply on super smooth and thin.
You will have to mask areas off or paint before you assemble.

Either way I would seal them with a flat coat of sealant.
Tamiya again has a great sealant.

Some people like the regular enamel hobby paints. I find them too thick and I don't like working with thinner.

[Wylde Weezle]

Yeah, stay away from enamels. They're often too glossy, and they don't ever look dry. They can even be downright sticky and will attract stuff like lint, dust...fingerprints

[Faceless]

It kinda depends on if you want to pose them or play with them?


For play you can use some spray paints like Tamiya brand.
Those spray paints apply on super smooth and thin.
You will have to mask areas off or paint before you assemble.

Either way I would seal them with a flat coat of sealant.
Tamiya again has a great sealant.

Some people like the regular enamel hobby paints. I find them too thick and I don't like working with thinner.

I've never heard of Tamiya brand, Is it available in Walmart/Department stores or would I have to go online/Hobby shops?

[kissmekillme]

Tamiya is a Japanese model paint, but most decent hobby shops carry it. Also, though you can thin it with water it's alcohol-based acrylic so its properties are slightly different. You won't find it at Wal-Mart.

[Eopie Herder]

Yeah, I also recommend Tamiya...great stuff, and a fantastic selection of military colors.

[Faceless]

Tamiya is a Japanese model paint, but most decent hobby shops carry it. Also, though you can thin it with water it's alcohol-based acrylic so its properties are slightly different. You won't find it at Wal-Mart.

Thanks!

I've just got one more question.

Dose anyone know of a good online source for it?

I don't have any hobby shops close to me. I'd have to drive at least 4 hours to find one.

[Eopie Herder]

If I'm not mistaken, you can order directly from Tamya's website. I've never done it, and I know you can order things from them, I just can't remember if you can get individual jars of paint.

[GI Flow]

Has anyone heard of Horizon model paints? I think they are better than Tamiya even. Water based acrylic that coats well (especially black) Thin coats go a long way.

[harkiri]

Any good suggestions on a white paint to use for giving the 2 pack SS a shirt? as in not sticky and not too glossy?