Which paints are best used to paint OO/HO metal figures?

A wide selection of hobby paint ranges can be used very effectively on metal figures.Both enamel and acrylic paints are effective on metal figures, as are paints with a specific metallic finish.

When painting metal figures it is good practice to ensure that prior to painting the figures are cleaned in a water-based mild detergent. Warm water with washing-up liquid will be ideal for this purpose as it will help to clean any surface grease and dirt from the figures allowing paint layers to better adhere to the figures. Once the figures are dry it is a good idea to give them a priming coat of paint in an appropriate shade. Again, this will help subsequent paint layers to better adhere.

Specific drying time can be a valid consideration when choosing the type of paint to be used on the figures. Enamel paint will generally be fully dry in 24 hours, acrylic paints will fully dry in 1-2 hours (longer for gloss finishes) and Enamel Metallics are generally fully dry in about 10 days. It is important to ensure any paint is fully dry before applying further coats or final varnishes as these will fully lock in the paint while providing protection for the paint finish.