Primers
Model Primers & Preparation
At Wonderland Models, we offer a diverse selection of high-quality primers to suit all types of modelling needs—whether you’re working with plastic, resin, or metal. Our range includes:
- Water-based acrylic primers – easy to use, low-odour, ideal for most plastic model surfaces
- Alcohol-based acrylic primers – excellent adhesion on metal or resin kits
- Enamel primers – durable and tough, perfect for heavy-use or high-wear films
- Cellulose-based lacquer primers – ultra-hard, fast-drying base coats for advanced finishes
We also stock compatible thinners, cleaners, paints, and varnishes to support your entire workflow. Brands include Tamiya, Citadel, Vallejo, Mr Hobby, Humbrol, and Revell.
77 Products Found
- Do I need to prime a model before painting it?
Priming isn’t always essential on bare plastic, but it gives paint a consistent surface to grip, evens out colour, and highlights any seams or surface flaws before your final coats go on. It’s strongly recommended for metal and resin parts, where paint adhesion is otherwise poor. Our Primers range covers both aerosol and airbrush-ready options.
- What’s the difference between spray primer and airbrush primer?
Aerosol spray primers are quick and convenient straight from the can, ideal for larger areas or when you don’t own an airbrush. Airbrush primers are thinner and give finer control, useful for detailed miniatures or where a heavy coat would obscure fine detail. Both are available in our Primers range.
- Can I prime plastic, metal and resin with the same primer?
Most modern primers work across plastic, metal and resin, though it’s worth checking the label, as some formulas are optimised for one material. A primer with good adhesion properties is particularly important for metal parts, covered in our Metal Model Kits FAQs. When in doubt, test on an inconspicuous area first.
- What colour primer should I use?
Grey primer is the most versatile all-rounder and works well under most colour schemes. Black primer suits dark or heavily weathered subjects and helps preserve shadow detail, while white primer brightens bright colours such as reds and yellows. Choose based on your finished paint scheme for the truest colour result.
- How long should I let primer dry before painting?
Most aerosol primers are touch-dry within 15 to 30 minutes but benefit from a few hours, or ideally overnight, before applying colour coats. Painting over primer too soon can cause the finish to lift or feel tacky. Check the specific product’s guidance, as drying times vary between brands and formulas.
- Do I need primer for a Warhammer miniature?
Yes, priming is standard practice for Citadel and other tabletop miniatures, as it helps paint and washes adhere evenly to fine plastic detail. Spray primers make quick work of priming a whole squad at once. Check our Tabletop Games & Miniatures FAQs for more on preparing miniatures for painting.
- What’s the best primer for beginners?
A grey aerosol primer is the easiest starting point, requiring no airbrush and giving forgiving, even coverage straight from the can. It works well across most plastic and metal kits and miniatures. Once you’re comfortable, you can experiment with coloured or airbrush primers for more advanced effects.