What paints are used in modelling?
Acrylic paint
Acrylic paint is widely used in model making because of its many qualities and advantages. It is appreciated by modernists for its versatility, ease of use, safety and compatibility with a variety of materials. Acrylic paints for modelling are specially formulated to meet the needs of modellers. They are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, making it possible to create realistic effects and reproduce different textures. Acrylic paints can be diluted with water to obtain different consistencies, making them easier to apply and control.
Here are some of the key advantages of acrylic paint in modelling:
1- Fast drying: acrylic paints dry quickly, allowing modellers to work more efficiently on their projects and to layer coats of paint without waiting too long.
2- Low toxicity: acrylic paints are considered safer than other types of paint because they contain fewer solvents and emit fewer volatile organic compounds. This makes them safer to use in indoor spaces without adequate ventilation.
3- Easy to clean: acrylic paint rinses can be easily cleaned with water, making it easy to clean brushes, pallets and work surfaces.
4- Adhesion: acrylic paint rinses can be easily cleaned with water, making it easy to clean brushes, pallets and work surfaces.
4- Versatile adhesion: Acrylic paints have excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces, including plastic, wood, metal, resin, etc. They can be used for a wide range of applications. They can also be used to paint models, figurines, horns, cars and other model objects.
5- Durability: once dried, acrylic paint forms a durable, scratch-resistant coating. It also offers good resistance to discolouration due to light, helping to preserve the appearance of models over the long term.
Cellulose paints
Cellulose paints are specifically designed for use in model making, particularly for painting models, figurines and other model elements. They are adapted to the specific needs of model makers and offer a number of advantages. Modulosic cellulose paints are often appreciated for their ease of application. They dry quickly, allowing people to work more quickly on their projects. What's more, these paints generally offer a smooth, glossy finish, which can give a realistic look to models. However, it is important to note that cellulose paints can be more toxic than water-based or acrylic paints, due to their chemical components and potential solvent emissions. It is therefore essential to use them in a well-ventilated environment and to take the necessary precautions, such as wearing suitable personal protective equipment (PPE).
What can be painted in railway modelling?
The décors
In railway modelling, paint is ideal for creating realistic hulls. It allows you to reproduce the texture of objects such as grass, trees, rocks, water and so on. Painting is essential for giving depth and contrast to miniature landscapes, using colour layering and gradation techniques to achieve authentic visual effects.
The bâtiments and structures
The buildings and structures of the railway model also require special attention in terms of painting. Paint can be used to reproduce different shades, the effects of wear and tear, architectural details, and to give a realistic finish to models of houses, stations, warehouses and other decorative elements.
Figures
Painting a miniature figurine yourself allows you to personalise the décor d'a miniature railway bucket, taking the research work done during the documentation phase a step further.When you're happy with a miniature's paintwork, remember to apply a coat of clear varnish to protect it and give it a matt or gloss finish, depending on your preferences.
How to paint a model
<1- Before applying the paint, it is recommended that you prepare the surface of the model by cleaning it and sanding it, if necessary. You can use a primer to improve the adhesion of the paint to the surface.
2- To apply the paint, you can use a fine brush or an airbrush, depending on your preference. Make sure you apply thin, even coats to avoid drips. If necessary, you can apply several coats to achieve complete coverage.
Once the paint has been applied, it is advisable to allow it to dry completely before handling or working on the model. Drying times may vary depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment. There are also other related products, such as varnishes, thinners and finishing products to protect and improve the paintwork on your model. In fact, paint is widely used in model making because of its high quality, glossy finish and wide choice of colours. Whether you're building planes, cars, boats or other model products, paints can help you achieve professional and realistic results.
Painting techniques used in rail modelling
The application of an undercoat
Before you start painting a model, it's essential to apply an undercoat. This uniform base layer allows the paint to adhere well. The undercoat can be applied with specific primers adapted to the model's material, such as plastic, metal or resin.
Brush painting
Brush painting is the method most commonly used in modelling. It allows you to control your brushstrokes and create fine details on models. The models use brushes of different sizes and shapes to apply the different layers of paint, from base colours to complex details.
Dry brushing
The dry brushing technique is commonly used in rail modelling to create texture and relief effects. It consists of preparing a small quantity of paint on a dry brush, then applying it lightly to the relief of the dome or structures. This highlights the details by allowing the paint to settle only on the protruding parts, giving a realistic look of ageing and patina.
L'aérographe
The airbrush is a versatile and precise tool used in railway modelling to paint models. It allows paint to be applied evenly and offers the possibility of subtle gradations to create realistic lighting and shadow effects. The aérographe is particularly effective for painting large expanses of landscape, such as the sky, mountains or fields.
Why use paint in a diorama?
The r´alism
Painting is an essential element in bringing striking realism to the horns and buildings in rail modelling. It can reproduce the colours, textures and wear effects found in the real thing, creating a captivating, realistic miniature environment.
Customisation
Painting offers railway model enthusiasts the opportunity to personalise their horns according to their preferences and inspirations. It allows the creation of specific atmospheres, the reproduction of real or fictional landscapes, and the expression of the creativity of each model.
Which brand of paint to choose?
Humbrol
Humbrol is another well-known brand in modelling. The British company Humbrol offers a wide range of paints and products specifically designed for modelling. Humbrol paints are mainly solvent-based paints. They offer excellent coverage and a smooth, glossy finish. Humbrol paints are available in pots and come in a wide range of shades and tints, allowing you to find the perfect colour for your style.
Tamiya
Tamiya is a Japanese modelling brand renowned for its paints. Tamiya paints are very popular with model makers, and can be used to customise models of planes, cars, boats, horns, etc., as well as miniature figures. Tamiya paints are generally water-based acrylic paints, which makes them easy to use and clean. They are available in a wide range of colours and offer a high-quality finish. Tamiya paint pots feature hermetically sealed caps that keep the paint for a long time without drying out.
Noch
Noch paints are specially designed for scale models. They are available in a wide range of colours and are suitable for painting a variety of materials used in model making, such as plastic, wood, resin, metal, etc. Noch paints are usually supplied in small pots or bottles with built-in brushes, making it easy to apply them precisely to a small model. Noch also offers thematic paint sets, which bring together a range of colours specially selected to represent particular subjects, such as landscapes, buildings, vehicles and so on. These sets come in handy for beginner modellers who don't know which types of paint to choose to achieve a realistic rendering.
Conclusion
In railway modelling, painting is an indispensable tool for bringing miniature landscapes to life and creating realistic sets. Thanks to techniques such as dry brushing and the use of an airbrush, modellers can reproduce textures, colours and visual effects with great precision. The paintwork thus offers the possibility of transforming a simple model into a truly captivating and immersive railway world.
