Essential Model Painting Techniques Explained

Painting is a crucial stage in static scale modelling, breathing life into each detail and adding an authentic feel to your finished piece. There are several painting techniques available to modellers, each with specific tools, materials, and methods depending on the subject. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between painting techniques across model categories, the best types of paint to use, and the most popular methods to achieve striking and realistic effects.

Painting Techniques by Model Type

Different modelling categories require unique painting approaches due to the materials and historical accuracy they demand. Here's a breakdown of how painting techniques vary across model types:

Ship Modelling Techniques

Model ships often require wood grain simulation, weathered metal, and water effects. Common techniques include:

• Washes for adding depth to panel lines and wood planks
• Dry brushing to highlight edges and rivets
• Pigments to simulate rust, oxidation, and sea salt residue

Railway Modelling Techniques

Trains and railway dioramas depend heavily on weathering effects. These often include:

• Airbrushing to apply smooth gradients and subtle fading
• Dry brushing to simulate chipped paint and worn surfaces
• Rust effects on wheels, tracks, and undercarriages

Aircraft Modelling Techniques

Aircraft models benefit from techniques that reproduce panel variations and weather exposure. Popular approaches are:

• Pre-shading to apply shadows under the base coat
• Post-shading to enhance contrast and realism after the base colour
• Fine airbrush detailing for soot, engine wear, and fuel stains

What Type of Paint Is Best for Scale Models?

Choosing the right type of paint depends on your model’s material, scale, and the finish you're aiming for. Here are the main types used in model painting:

Acrylic Paints

• Fast drying and water-based
• Easy to clean and suitable for both brush and airbrush
• Great for beginners and versatile for most applications

Enamel Paints

• Oil-based and known for excellent coverage and durability
• Requires specific thinners and longer drying times
• Ideal for highly detailed finishes

Oil Paints

• Primarily used for advanced weathering techniques
• Stay workable for longer, perfect for soft blending and shading
• Commonly used in filters and panel line washes

Acrylic vs. Enamel Paints: Which One to Choose?

Both acrylics and enamels are staples in the modeller’s toolkit, but they offer different advantages:

• Acrylics are best for quick projects, layering, and indoor work due to their low odour and fast drying time.
• Enamels provide a tougher finish and are often preferred for metallic surfaces and fine detailing.

Advanced modellers often use a combination of both for specific effects across different model areas.

Popular Techniques: Weathering, Pre-shading & More

Weathering Techniques for Realism

Weathering adds depth and authenticity to scale models by simulating the effects of time and use. Popular methods include:

• Washes: Highly thinned paint applied to recesses and panel lines to accentuate details.
• Filters: Transparent layers used to subtly shift the base colour tone.
• Dry brushing: Applying nearly dry paint with a stiff brush to highlight raised edges.
• Pigments & powders: Used to simulate dust, dirt, rust, and soot. Often fixed in place using pigment binders or fixatives.

These techniques are especially effective in military modelling, railway dioramas, and vintage aircraft.

Pre-shading & Post-shading Techniques

• Pre-shading involves airbrushing darker lines or areas over panel lines and shadow zones before applying the final colour coat. It creates depth and variation under the paint.
• Post-shading is done after the base coat to intensify shadows and simulate dirt, grime, or structural wear.

Both techniques work best with airbrushing and are ideal for aircraft, tanks, and vehicles.

Dry Brushing Technique

Dry brushing is an easy yet powerful method to bring out raised details on a surface. The steps:

• Load a small amount of paint on a flat brush.
• Wipe most of it off on a paper towel until nearly dry.
• Lightly sweep the brush across the surface.

This highlights textures like rivets, weld lines, wood grain, and more, making them pop without overpainting.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Model Painting

Model painting is an art form that combines precision, creativity, and technical skill. Whether you're working with acrylics for speed, enamels for durability, or oil paints for subtle effects, the right technique can elevate your model from basic to breathtaking.

From pre-shading aircraft fuselages to weathering ship hulls, every technique contributes to a more authentic and engaging result. Experimenting with different materials and methods is the best way to find your style and improve your modelling skills.