Primers

What are model primers and why should you use them?

A primer is a fundamental part of the painting process for any model. It's a specialized paint applied as the first coat directly onto the model's surface—be it plastic, resin, or metal. The main purpose of a primer is to create the perfect base for subsequent layers of paint. It helps the top coat adhere much better to the surface, preventing chipping and rubbing off. This is especially important for smooth, slick plastics, which standard acrylic or enamel paints may have trouble bonding with.

Another key function of a primer is to unify the color of the entire model. Models are often built from components in various shades of plastic, as well as photo-etched or resin parts. Applying a single coat of primer, such as gray, gives the entire model a uniform color, which makes it easier to assess the paint job and ensures the final colors will look consistent. A primer also perfectly reveals any surface imperfections, like fine scratches, glue marks, or sanding inconsistencies, giving you a chance to correct them before applying the final color.

Types of Primers – Spray, Airbrush, and Brush-On

Our selection includes primers in various forms to suit your needs and tools. The most popular are aerosol primers, which allow for quick and even coverage of even large surfaces. They are easy to use and ideal for beginners. For modelers who use an airbrush, we offer bottled primers that provide greater precision and control over the thickness of the applied layer. They can also be applied with a brush to smaller parts. Primers come in several basic colors: gray is the most versatile; white is excellent for making bright and vibrant colors (like yellow or red) pop; and black provides a perfect base for shading techniques (pre-shading) and for painting metallic colors.