I've always used acrylics but for a variety of reasons, I've decided I want use Humbrol paint for a couple of projects.
My question is, what can I use to thin Humbrol other than the obvious (Humbrol thinner). I'm looking for something readily available that costs less than a vial of Chanel no. 5
Thanks,
Cob

when i use humbrol enamals i just use white spirits in the cheapest largest quantitys i can find . hope this helps

I have used Humbrol for decades and have always used mineral turps from my local paint and hardware store. Its cheap, works for both thinning and clean up and I always have it on hand anyway for house painting projects.

Regards Dave

I think I never used the Humbrol thinner to dilute Humbrol enamels. I use any laquer thinner I found at hardware stores or arts craft stores...
Ciao

With the posts above you may believe that all and any white spirits or turps work perfectly for humbrols. Thats not the case though.
For direct brush painting, most will, when the paint and thinner is constantly being mixed. but be careful because the paint tends to clump when left sitting for a short period of time. I use an oderless turp for brush painting, but I had to try several before I found one that I was happy with. I then used this to thin humbrol for airbrushing and the paint and thinner seperated, meaning the airbrush spluttered first and then no paint came out. In art stores they sell something called balsam or balsamic turpentine, which works well for both. I also tried a white spirit from the art store and it was practically useless.

But for washes, nothing beats humbrols own thinners... especially on vehicles or figures. I wont chance anything less. Try on an old figure or piece of scrap to be sure first.

Im not saying there is no other alternative to Humbrol, the other guys have proven results and know what they are talking about. Just be a little careful and try out on some scrap, a little brush painting and airbrushing first, so you can feel confident. The ultimate test is washes...... if, when you wash, the wash doesnt run properly, or the paint clumps in little puddles, you may have to try something else for this.

I buy humbrol thinner in the 250ml tins which makes it a good bit cheaper, but at least, I know what Im getting then. For the amount of money extra, a ruined wash on a figure or vehicle is not worth saving.

Thanks to all for the responses,
I intend on using them with an airbrush so I will try the basalmic turpentine on a scrap of plastic first. Hope it works. If not, I'll reach into my pocket and get the Humbrol thinner...I suppose like anything else, you get what you pay for.
v/r,
Cob