thinning Tamiya paint

[tjones87]

This is my first time using Tamiya acrylic paints. Do I need to thin it before using my airbrush to spray it? if so, what ratio do i use. thanks

[scalenut]

Rough guidelines of thinning ratio is 2:1-3:1 ( Tamiya Acrylic paint : thinner).

that's using the x-20 thinner ,

For best results Tamiya suggests their Lacquer thinner.

their "Acrylic" paint is actually an acrylic Lacquer

but either thinners work well

Edited December 7, 2011 by scalenut

[tjones87]

I have the x20a thinner that was recommended by the website. Will start out with 2:1 and go from there. thanks for the info

[Mike Kucaba]

"their "Acrylic" paint is actually an acrylic Lacquer"

Really? That's news to me,I thought it was water based acrylic enamel,but the X20 thinner is the only way I could get it to spray well and lay down a great gloss.

[Roadkill2525]

I use the Testors/Model Master/Aztek Acryl Thinner, no real ratio except as thin as skim milk.

[Chuck Most]

I use the Testors/Model Master/Aztek Acryl Thinner, no real ratio except as thin as skim milk.

That's the rule I follow as well, just thin it until it's the right consistency. It does seem to vary just a bit how much you'll need to thin it from color to color and batch to batch, at least in my experience.

I've used Tamiya's reccomended thinner, but I've had pretty good luck simply using distilled water, too.

[Monty]

I haven't tried this myself, but I've seen numerous airbrush users recommend Windex for reducing acrylic paint.

[saltflat1]

I have used 91% isoprpol alcohol for thinning tamiya and it worked fine .Saves a little money too.

[Erik Smith]

I use tamiya thinner and have found I need to go almost 1:1 on my Iwata eclipse AB. Any thicker and it clogs the tip.