How to achieve paint adhesion to plastic models.?

Question

After washing the plastic model in soap and water I still have problems with paint adhesion. When I dry brush the paint sometimes comes off the painted surface that has already been painted. I am hand brushing with acrylic paints.

Ideas?

Thanks............Jack

Answer 1

Okay, bravo for washing with soap & water first !!

I mostly use enamels, but have been experimenting with acrylics on some of my railroad equipment:  I've noticed that the paint requires thorough drying time before weathering.

I've gotten by the problem by coating with a matte finish after the primary coat.

GOOD LUCK

Answer 2

Have you tried wiping it down with rubbing alcohol after washing it in soap and water?  If you use a soap with oils in it, it will make the paint not stick well.  Try using Dawn if you wash down a model.

Answer 3

Sounds like you need to use a primer paint of some kind to get the paint to stick to the surface.