Model Paints & Varnishes

Model Paints & Varnishes

At Wonderland Models, we stock a wide range of high-quality model paints and varnishes from leading brands including Citadel, Vallejo, Army Painter, Tamiya, Revell, Mr Hobby, and Humbrol.

Whether you're painting plastic kits, miniatures, or dioramas, we have everything you need—from acrylics and enamels to spray paints, textured finishes, and clear varnishes. You’ll also find paint pens and lacquer-based paints for more advanced applications.

Not sure which paint type is right for your project? Our expert staff are always happy to help—in-store or online. All orders are securely packed and shipped across the UK, with express delivery available for urgent projects.

2811 Products Found

What’s the difference between acrylic, enamel and lacquer paints?

Acrylic paints are water-based, low odour and easy to clean up, making them the most popular choice for beginners and indoor painting. Enamel paints give a tougher, glossier finish but need dedicated thinners and better ventilation, while lacquers dry fastest and offer the smoothest finish for experienced airbrush users. Our Model Paints & Varnishes range covers all three, clearly labelled by type.

Do I need a varnish over my paintwork?

A varnish isn’t essential, but it protects finished paintwork from handling marks and gives you control over the final sheen, whether matt, satin or gloss. It’s particularly worthwhile before adding decals or weathering effects, as a gloss coat helps decals settle without silvering. Choose a varnish that matches the paint type you’ve used for the best results.

Can I use the same paints for plastic, metal and wooden kits?

Acrylic and enamel paints work well across plastic, metal and wooden surfaces, though metal and bare wood benefit from a primer coat first for proper adhesion. Check our Primers range if you’re painting a Metal Model Kit or Wooden Model. Plastic generally accepts paint most readily of the three.

What paint do I need for a specific colour scheme?

Most kit instructions reference specific paint codes from major ranges, and our product listings note compatible colour matches where relevant. For military and aircraft subjects in particular, sticking to the referenced brand and shade gives the most accurate finish. If in doubt, cross-check the kit’s paint guide against our Model Paints & Varnishes range before ordering.

Do I need an airbrush, or can I hand-paint with a brush?

Both approaches work well, and many award-winning builds are entirely hand-painted. An airbrush gives smoother, more even coverage and faster results on large areas, while a good brush from our Brushes range is perfectly capable for detail work and smaller kits. Choose based on your budget and how much of the hobby you want to invest in early on.

How do I thin acrylic paints for airbrushing?

Acrylics generally need thinning with water or a dedicated acrylic thinner to a milk-like consistency before airbrushing, though the exact ratio varies by brand. Our Thinners & Cleaners range includes thinners matched to the major acrylic ranges we stock. Always thin gradually and test on scrap plastic before spraying your model.

Which brands of paint does Wonderland Models stock?

We carry a wide range including Citadel, Vallejo, Humbrol, AK Interactive, and dedicated Tamiya Paints & Accessories and Revell Paints & Accessories ranges. Browse the full brand list to compare ranges side by side.