Paints

As a wise man once said, it’s surprising what a lick of paint will do! Painting your models or other hobby projects is often one of the most enjoyable parts, seeing the details coming together to create an intricate and polished final piece. 

At Frontline Hobbies, we stock a massive range of model paints, paintbrushes and all the painting supplies you need to get those fine details and perfect finishes just right. 

A quick guide to different types of hobby and model paint

The type of paint needed for your project will vary depending on the finish you want and the medium you’re working with. 

Acrylic paint

What is it? Acrylic paints are typically water-based and made with pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. Acrylic paints are relatively cheap, although artist-quality acrylics can be expensive, fast drying and water resistant once dry, making them perhaps the most widely used type of hobby paint. 

What’s it used for? Acrylic paints are used for everything -- from painting on canvas to model building and arts and crafts. Due to their wide availability and relatively low price, acrylics are used across a range of industries and hobbies. 

At Frontline Hobbies, we stock a range of cyclic model paints tailored to the specific needs of modellers like the Human Eyes 8 Colour Acrylic Paint Set from Scale75.

Enamel paint

What is it? The term enamel paint is used to describe a variety of paints with a glossy, hard surface when dried. They’re typically based on alkyd resin but can also be suspended in vinyl or acrylic substances and tend to take longer to dry than acrylic paints. 

What’s it used for? Enamel paint is used in situations which require a hard finish when dried. Enamel paints are commonly used in model building to give a long-lasting finish. 

Lacquer

What is it? Lacquer is a hard and sometimes shiny paint that coats and protects products. Lacquer can be clear or pigmented and when dry produces a hard gloss or matte finish. Hobby lacquers can be acrylic-based or water-based. 

What’s it used for? Lacquer is used to add a protective final layer over a painted item. At Frontline Hobbies, we stock dozens of lacquer options for model building from brands like Scale Modellers Supply who offer tailored palettes for modelling kits like the Auscam Bushmaster Lacquer Paint Set for Australian bush camo vehicles. 

Primer 

What is it? Primer is a paint product which is used to prepare surfaces like wood, metal and plastic for painting. Primer makes painting easier, helps paint stick to the surface more readily and reduces the number of coats needed to get a strong colour. 

What’s it used for? Primer can be used to prepare any surface for painting, however it’s most beneficial on porous surfaces like wood and some metals which need to be made smooth and non-porous before paint is applied. 

Spray paint

What is it? Spray paint, or aerosol paint, contains a mixture of propellant and paint in a can with a valve button which, when deployed, releases the paint mixture in a mist. Spray paints are quick and easy to use with the added advantage of not leaving any brush marks behind.

What’s it used for? Spray paint is used for quickly and easily applying layers of paint to large areas across a range of materials. Spray painting is an easy way to apply a single colour to the surface of a model or other project and can also act as a primer for acrylic paints. 

FAQs about hobby paints with Frontline Hobbies

Do you offer free delivery on your paint supplies?

We offer free shipping on eligible orders over $150 or a standard flat rate shipping fee of $9.95 throughout Australia. Please note that some spray paints may be classed as dangerous goods and need to be sent by courier which may incur additional charges.

Are your paints available for click and collect?

Yes! We offer free, instant click and collect at our Broadmeadow store. If you’re in the local Newcastle area, you can select click and collect as your delivery option, simply choose “Free pick-up from store” as your delivery option at our online check out. 

Please note you will need to enter a local Newcastle address at check out for click and collect to be made available to you. Alternatively, you can arrange a contact-free click and collect orders via phone on (02) 4929 1140. 

How will I know which model paints to use for my model building project?

Refer to the manual that comes with your model building kit to find out which paints and other hobby supplies are required for assembly. You will typically find a paint chart in your manual which corresponds to paints available for purchase — if you’re unsure, please feel free to bring your manual into our store and we’ll gladly assist you or contact us online. 

For more information on modelling check out our beginners model building guide.

Can I pay for my paints with AfterPay or zipPay?

Yep, you sure can! We offer ZipPay and AfterPay on all our online and in-store paint orders so you can paint now and pay later. 

Can you help me choose the right paint for my project?

We sure can! Our expert hobby specialists will gladly help you select the right model paint or craft paint you need to complete your project. If you’re in the Newcastle area pop into our Broadmeadow store for a chat with one of our friendly staff, otherwise give us a call on (02) 4929 1140 or drop us an email at enquiries@frontlinehobbies.com.au. 

Stock up on paint, primer, lacquer and brushes online today and get started on your latest project!

Shop online today to find all your hobby and model paint needs. Got a question about one of our products? We’re here to help! Get in touch with our expert staff for advice on the right paints for your project. Happy painting! 

Shop hobby and model paint supplies online today — AfterPay and zipPay available with free shipping on orders over $150

The plastic cement chemically melts two surfaces and welds them together to form a strong bond that will outlast any other type of glue. Plus, plastic cement can be sanded and reshaped without weakening the joint once it’s dry!

At Frontline Hobbies, we stock plastic cement from premium brands like Gunze Mr Hobby, Tamiya, Deluxe Materials and Revell, so you can bet your models are going to stay glued together for years to come. Browse through our collection of plastic cement and check out online for fast, affordable shipping Australia-wide!