Primer and acrylic

Guys,

Tamiya acrylics are my main paint for everything.

I use an no name auto primer and then either shoot or brush over this primer. I have not had any problems with this method.

You do not have to thin Tamiya acrylics to shoot them! Clean up using window cleaner and water!

dss902

Chris,
I too am just begining to switch over to Acrylics...Ive had the same problem with Testors Acryl formula...the problem was I thought the paint was mixed well...when it wasn't. That was my problem...its kind of different for me using acrylics, might just be in my head but seems that the paint is a lil thinner than enamel and doesnt flow off the brush as well..and tends to "pool" in low spots.
Chris

Chris-

If you used a 'clear cote' of whatever as a primer, as you said, then I think you need to use another type of paint as a primer. A 'clear cote' will be too glossy, and hence too smooth for the purposes of being used as a primer. Anything placed over the top of it will 'slide around' and not adhere very well. If nothing else try using a 'flat' paint, like a gray, as a primer coat. Or try the auto primer I'm using.

My understanding of a primer coat is twofold. One is to give any subsequent coats of paint something to 'bite' on to, something to grab on to! The other purpose is to show off any flaws underneath. This gives you the chance to 'clean-up' that moulding seam you thought you cleaned up, but now the primer coat shows that you didn't quite do the right job, or that ejector pin mark you though you sanded down enough, and now the primer coat shows you it needs just a bit more sanding. Hope this helps!

Glenn

I would say it's soemthing strange about the primer then...

I'm using Tamiya acrylics. The primer is clear cote I think. Tried going a little easier on the dollar. Don't know what type of paint it is though , the can did not say. The primer had probally been cureing for at least a week. I did'nt have any problem airbrushing the acrylics on but when I tried regular brushing it would slide around.

I like to use Lacquers for priming too... and I have not had any problems with Acrylics sticking to them.

Chris-

What do you mean by "acrylics to not want to go onto primer"? I think you need to get just a little more specific. Like what kind of primer are you using? What brand of acrylics? What kind of drying time between primer and subsequent paint coats?

For primer I use 'Plasti-kote' sandable automotive lacquer primer. Comes in gray or white or red in a 12 ounce spray can. You can get it at most auto parts stores. Don't worry about the 'lacquer'. This primer will go over styrene plastic without hurting it at all. Just don't put on too thick! I am currently using Tamiya acrylics over that without any problem whatsoever. Anyway that's what I'm doing.

Hope I'm helping and not confusing the issue!

Glenn