Why is a Primer Crucial in Model Making?

A primer is the foundation of any successful model paint job. It's a specialized paint applied as the first coat directly onto the model's surface—whether it's plastic, metal, or resin parts. Its main purpose is to create an ideal base for subsequent layers of topcoat paint. By using a primer, the main paint gains significantly better adhesion, which prevents it from peeling or rubbing off in the future. Moreover, a primer unifies the color of all model components, which is especially important when assembling parts of different plastic shades or combining them with photo-etched elements. A uniform, neutral base color (most often grey, white, or black) allows for the true final color to be accurately represented.

Another key function of a primer is to reveal any surface imperfections. Minor scratches from sanding, small indentations, or glue residues become perfectly visible after its application. This provides an opportunity to correct them before applying the final color, resulting in a professional-looking finished model. Skipping the priming stage can lead to numerous problems, such as uneven paint coverage or even a chemical reaction between the solvent and the plastic.

Zero Paints Primers – The Professional Choice

In this category, we offer primers from the renowned brand Zero Paints, valued by modelers worldwide, especially those specializing in vehicle miniatures. These products are formulated to provide a thin, yet very durable and perfectly smooth base layer. They are primarily designed for airbrush application, allowing for full control over the coat's thickness. The range includes various types of primers, including standard primers and filler primers, which effectively hide minor scratches and imperfections, reducing the need for additional putty work. Zero Paints primers feature excellent adhesion to polystyrene, resin, and metals, forming a solid foundation for the brand's basecoats and clear coats.