Jak nadać modelowi plastikowemu lustrzany połysk pastami Tamiya?

How to make your plastic model shine like a mirror using Tamiya polishing compounds?

There’s nothing quite as eye-catching as a perfectly polished model. If you're wondering how to achieve a factory-like gloss finish on your 1/72 or 1/48 scale model, Tamiya’s polishing compounds are your best ally. Below is a proven step-by-step polishing process to elevate your model to the next level of realism.

When Should You Polish a Model?

Always polish the surface if you plan to paint it with a glossy or metallic finish. Such finishes will highlight every scratch and surface imperfection.

Polishing is also often necessary for canopy parts—either to remove damage caused during handling or due to the surface quality in older model kits.

1. Surface Preparation

- Wet sand using 2000–3000 grit paper until all seam lines and primer imperfections disappear.
- Rinse and dry the model thoroughly. Dust is the number one enemy of gloss!

2. Main Polishing Steps

Step 1: Coarse (87068) – remove deep scratches – 2–3 min per wing 
Step 2: Fine (87069) – smooth out micro scratches – 2 min 
Step 3: Finish (87070) – add final gloss – 1 min 

*Work in small sections – this is the key to even finishing.*

3. Application Technique

- Apply a small amount of compound – about the size of a pea – to sponge 87192 or a soft microfiber cloth.
- Polish with light pressure using short, circular motions.
- After each step, wipe off residue with a clean microfiber cloth.
- If the surface still lacks shine – repeat the Fine and Finish steps.

4. Polishing Clear Parts

- Wear nitrile gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on canopies.
- Use only Fine and Finish – skip Coarse.
- Rinse parts in lukewarm water with a drop of dish soap after polishing.

5. Tool Maintenance

- Wash Tamiya sponges in warm soapy water, squeeze gently and let them air dry.
- Never dry on a radiator – they may deform.

6. Common Mistakes

- Too much compound – leads to smearing.
- Too much pressure – creates new scratches instead of removing them.
- Polishing large areas at once – results in uneven gloss.

7. Summary

Polishing is a simple yet patience-demanding technique. With proper order and restraint, Tamiya compounds can give you a stunning “wet look” finish without expensive 2K clear coats. Try the process on your next build and share your results – we’d love to see them!