FM102 – Terrace House with Shop

🎨 SCALE MODELLING & PAINTING FAQ 🎨

New to scale modelling or unsure how to paint your figures? Here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

❓ What is scale modelling?

Scale modelling is the creation and painting of miniature versions of people, animals, vehicles, buildings and scenery. Models are produced to a particular scale so they look correctly proportioned when displayed together.

❓ What do scales such as 1:76, 1:43 and 1:32 mean?

The scale describes how much smaller the model is than the real object. For example, a 1:76 figure is 76 times smaller than the full-sized person.

Common figure scales include:

• 1:148 – N gauge
• 1:120 – TT scale
• 1:87 – HO scale
• 1:76 – OO scale
• 1:72 – Military and aircraft modelling
• 1:43 – O gauge
• 1:35 – Military modelling
• 1:32 – Large-scale figures and vehicles
• 1:24 – Large display models
• 1:12 – Dolls’ house scale

Please remember that figure heights can vary because real people are not all the same height.

❓ Are your models supplied painted?

Unless a listing states otherwise, our figures are supplied unpainted. Painted photographs may be shown as examples or painting references only.

❓ What colour will my model be?

Models may be supplied in grey, white or terracotta-coloured resin. Resin colour can vary, but this does not affect the model’s detail or its suitability for painting.

❓ Do I need to prepare a resin model before painting?

Yes. Carefully remove any remaining supports or small printing marks using fine cutters, a craft knife and fine sandpaper. Wash the model gently in warm, soapy water and allow it to dry completely before applying primer.

Always wear suitable protection when sanding resin and avoid breathing in resin dust.

❓ Should I use a primer?

Yes. Primer helps the paint adhere properly and makes it easier to see the model’s details. Apply several light coats rather than one heavy coat, as too much primer can hide fine details.

Grey, white and black primers are all suitable:

• White creates brighter colours.
• Grey is a good general-purpose choice.
• Black is useful for darker figures and strong shadows.

❓ What type of paint should I use?

Water-based acrylic model paints are ideal for most resin figures. They dry quickly, are easy to mix and can be thinned with water or acrylic thinner.

❓ Do I need to thin acrylic paint?

Usually, yes. Several thin coats will give a smoother finish and preserve more detail than one thick coat. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

❓ What should I paint first?

A simple painting order is:

1. Prime the model.

2. Paint the largest areas.

3. Add clothing and equipment colours.

4. Paint the face, hands and hair.

5. Add shadows and highlights.

6. Paint small details.

7. Apply a protective varnish.

There is no single correct method—use the order that feels most comfortable to you.

❓ How do I create shadows and highlights?

Use a slightly darker version of the base colour in folds and recessed areas. Apply a lighter version to raised areas where light would naturally fall.

A thin wash can help define recesses, while gentle dry-brushing can bring out raised textures.

❓ How do I paint faces and eyes?

Begin with a flesh-coloured base coat, then add subtle shadows around the nose, cheeks, chin and eye sockets. Use lighter paint on the forehead, nose and cheekbones.

At smaller scales, eyes should be kept very subtle. Large, bright white eyes can make a miniature look unnatural.

❓ What brushes should I use?

A small selection is normally enough:

• Medium brush for base colours
• Fine pointed brush for details
• Older flat brush for dry-brushing
• Larger soft brush for scenery and terrain

A good point and proper brush care are often more important than using the smallest possible brush.

❓ Should I varnish my finished model?

Varnish is recommended because it protects the paint from handling, dust and minor scratches. Matt varnish gives most figures a natural finish, while satin or gloss varnish can be used for leather, polished surfaces, glass and wet effects.

❓ Can beginners paint scale models?

Absolutely! Everyone starts somewhere. Begin with a simple model, use thin coats of paint and take your time. Your technique will improve with every figure you complete.

❓ Can you turn my photograph into a scale model?

Yes! Our Mini Maker 3D service can transform suitable photographs into downloadable 3D-printable models. You can print the file at home or ask Scale Model Figures about producing a physical resin print.

Have another question about scale modelling, painting or choosing the correct scale? Leave it in the comments and we will be happy to help.

Scale Model Figures
Bringing miniature scenes to life.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.