I want to get started painting TFs, and I'm thinking about getting the paint here: Amazon.com: Flat Black Testors Acrylic Plastic Model Paint: Toys & Games I've read here that Testors Acrylic paints are good, but I want to make sure that this is the right type. I'd be getting this as well as other colors.
Years ago, I was afraid of painting Transformers, given the multiple rubbing edges. I use Vallejo acrylics on my Marvel Legends-type customs. These days though, I find Mr. Hobby lacquer (applied with a self leveling thinner) work wonders for creating a super-durable surface. You can also paint acrylic details (or whole coats) on top of it -- just never the other way around. I've never used Testors though, perhaps I should try them as well.
I'm also wondering if Games Workshop paints would be good for TF customizing. Does anyone know how well those work?
I haven't worked with GW personally, but it seems to be another one of the trusted brands for TF customizing. I'll just cut to the chase and provide a list of the commonly used paints. Testors Tamiya Games Workshop Valejo Citadel Krylon Fusion/Krylon Camouflage House of Kolor (or HOK)
Model Masters is a line from Testors that is extensively used for plastic models. A great many of our artists here use it frequently and have done so over a decade now.
I use Testors more or less exclusively. Easy to use, easy cleanup, you don't even need to use primer most of the time. It's a great product. Only advice is: You'll get a better deal and a much better selection of colors if you buy them right off their website.
That particular flat black paint is one of the best black paints out there, and great for high friction areas. Paint it on thin and it dries hard as a rock. All of these were painted with that exact paint:
Yes. Use the games workshops own black or white base coat for the colours to go on top. Also use the purity seal they have. All together it's quite durable
Both Testors and Citadel/Games Workshop are good paints. Testors Flat Black is good, the Gunmetal and a few other colors will set so hard you can take a key to it and barely scratch it. GW is more for the metals and trim colors, very vibrant. I use them a lot since those are about the only brands here available. Testors Model Master Lacquer-Silver in the paint pots is also great for faux chrome or cheating when drybrushing, ultra shiny too. The lacquer sprays are great for alt mode finishes and really nice metallics.
Games Workshop/Citadel (same Brand) paints are good but i'd go for Vallejo Game Colour personaly. Same Formula,bigger range,Waay Cheaper & superb designed pots. Always use a spray primer with any acrylics.
Eh, Vallejo may be less pricey in the UK, but that's not necessarily true elsewhere. When I come across them the price is pretty much the same as the GW.
