If you're getting into scale modelling, Gunpla painting, or RC body painting, Tamiya paints are one of the best places to start. They're reliable, widely available in Australia, and beginner-friendly. But with dozens of colours and multiple paint types on offer, knowing what to buy first can be confusing. This guide cuts through the noise and tells you exactly what you need.

Why Tamiya?

Tamiya is one of the most trusted names in scale modelling, and their paints have been a hobby staple for decades. Here's why beginners love them:

• Consistent quality — every pot behaves predictably, which matters when you're learning
• Wide colour range — hundreds of colours including military, automotive, and anime-accurate shades
• Water-based acrylics available — easy to clean up with water, low odour, safe for indoor use
• Great availability — stocked right here at Aussie Hobbies with fast shipping across Australia

Tamiya Paint Types Explained

Before you buy, it's important to understand the different Tamiya paint lines:

Tamiya Acrylic Paints (X and XF series)

These are the most beginner-friendly option. Tamiya acrylics are water-based, low odour, and easy to clean up. They can be brushed or airbrushed (when thinned correctly) and dry to a durable finish.

• X series — gloss finish (e.g. X-1 Black, X-2 White)
• XF series — flat/matte finish (e.g. XF-1 Flat Black, XF-2 Flat White)

For most beginners, the XF (flat) series is the go-to for model painting as matte finishes hide brush strokes better and look more realistic on scale models.

Tamiya Enamel Paints (X and XF series in enamel)

Tamiya enamels are oil-based and require enamel thinner for cleanup. They're excellent for panel line washes and weathering effects, but less ideal as a primary paint for beginners due to the stronger fumes and longer dry times.

Tamiya Lacquer Paints (LP series)

Lacquers are fast-drying and extremely durable, making them popular for airbrushing. However, they require lacquer thinner, produce strong fumes, and need good ventilation. Best left until you're more experienced.

Best Tamiya Paints for Beginners

If you're just starting out, stick with the Tamiya Acrylic (XF) range. Here are the essential colours to start your collection:

Essential Colours to Start With

• XF-1 Flat Black — panel lining, shadows, and base coats
• XF-2 Flat White — highlights, mixing, and light armour colours
• XF-16 Flat Aluminium — metallic accents and mechanical details
• XF-63 German Grey — a versatile neutral for military and mecha builds
• XF-57 Buff — great for weathering, dust effects, and desert tones
• X-20A Acrylic Thinner — essential for thinning paints for airbrushing or smooth brush application

With these six products you can paint, shade, highlight, and weather almost any model. Add colours specific to your kit as you go.

Brush Painting vs Airbrushing with Tamiya Acrylics

Brush Painting

Brush painting is the easiest way to get started — no equipment needed beyond a few good brushes. Tamiya acrylics brush paint well straight from the pot for detail work, though thinning slightly with X-20A gives a smoother finish. Apply thin coats and let each one dry fully before adding the next.

Airbrushing

For smooth, even base coats, airbrushing is hard to beat. Thin Tamiya acrylics with X-20A thinner to a milk-like consistency (roughly 1 part thinner to 1–2 parts paint). Test on a spare piece of sprue before painting your kit. Airbrushing takes practice but produces professional results.

Tips for Painting with Tamiya Acrylics

• Always prime first — Tamiya Surface Primer helps paint adhere and reveals surface imperfections before you paint
• Thin your paints — thick paint obscures detail; thin coats always look better
• Let each coat dry fully — Tamiya acrylics dry to the touch in 20–30 minutes but cure fully in 24 hours
• Use a palette — pour small amounts out rather than painting directly from the pot
• Seal your work — finish with a Tamiya clear coat (gloss, semi-gloss, or flat) to protect your paint job

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use water to thin Tamiya acrylic paints?

You can, but Tamiya's own X-20A Acrylic Thinner gives much better results. Water can cause the paint to bead or lose adhesion, especially on smooth plastic surfaces. X-20A is specifically formulated for Tamiya acrylics and is well worth the investment.

Are Tamiya paints safe for kids?

Tamiya acrylic paints are water-based and low odour, making them the safest option for younger hobbyists. Always ensure good ventilation and supervise children when painting. Avoid enamel and lacquer paints for younger builders.

How long do Tamiya paints last?

Stored with lids tightly closed, Tamiya acrylics can last several years. If a pot starts to thicken, add a few drops of X-20A thinner and stir well to restore it.

Do I need to prime before using Tamiya paints?

Priming is highly recommended. Tamiya Surface Primer (available in grey, white, and black) improves paint adhesion, reveals surface flaws, and gives you a consistent base to paint over. It makes a noticeable difference to the final result.

What's the difference between X and XF Tamiya paints?

X series paints dry to a gloss finish, while XF series paints dry to a flat (matte) finish. For most scale model painting, XF (flat) is preferred as it looks more realistic and hides brush strokes better. X (gloss) paints are great for canopies, eyes, and wet-look effects.

Shop Tamiya Paints at Aussie Hobbies

We stock the full range of Tamiya acrylic, enamel, and lacquer paints at Aussie Hobbies, with fast shipping across Australia. Whether you're in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne or beyond, we've got your painting supplies covered.