Now I know this topic has been broached in the past, but I didn't like the answers, so I'm trying again I know the standard answer for thinning Model Master and Testor enamel paints is to use the mfg. suggested thinner. However, has anyone tried regular paint thinner, or terpinoid...anything like that, with good results? I'm pretty well stocked with Testors Thinner right now, but every time I hit the hardware store, I just start wondering if there isn't another way.

TIA

Mike

I clean out the airbrush with the cheaper big jug of paint thinner from Canadian Tire. I can't recommend using it, but from what I've seen, it does work the same way as the Testors kind. I just think Testors thinner isn't quite as strong or something, which is better for mixing paint. Most of this is just speculation, though.

Nic

I use hardware store thinner for my washes, where it isn't as critical. For the most part I use what the mfr recommends, because I don't feel like experimenting. I would be curious if we could hear from an 'insider' about whether there is any real difference in the MM or Testors stuff vs. the bulk cans from Home Depot.

Hey...I just noticed I'm at 299...this could be my big promotion!!

Hey Guys,

First time here.
as for the question at hand. I always used the hardware store thinner. I just use about 2 drops for the mineral spirts which will thinn the testors or MM enough for you to use and it speeds the drying time also. Hope this helps..

Pieter

It does indeed, Pieter, thank you very much for that. I knew there had to be another way. And welcome to the site, by the way. Congrats. It's not everyone who comes streaming in with a good answer on their first post.

Mike

I concur with Pieter (welcome to the site by the way). I use a big can of odorless mineral spirits I picked up at Home Depot. Worked just fine.

So just to get things clear. You can substitute odourless mineral spirits for Testors enamel thinner ??? Can this be used not only for thinning the paint but also for cleaning airbrushes/brushes ? ?

If so this would be awesome and way cheaper. What about Turpentine from Home depot, would that work for enamels ???

BTW what is the difference between turpenoid and turpentine ? can they also both be used

Leader

I never even knew of any Testors brand thinner (besides brush cleaner), if that tells you anything about how good the results with regular hardware store paint thinner and/or turpentine (which I always thought were the same thing) are.

Hey tin_can and mj

Thank you for the warm welcome. Im kinda a back and forth person for here and digitaldiorama. which there I am a moderator in the armor area. though I would bring some info this way also.

Welcome Pieter and good one on the thinner.Heck yes as the paint is not nothing special just refined more so their are less big pieces of pigments in it about the only difference in model paints then regular one. I bet they make a mint on that stuff $2.50 a jar for MM 1/3 pigment and the rest thinner bang zoom big bucks.

Although my experience with enamels is limited to Humbrol and Revell, I too have NEVER bought their recommended thinners. White Spirit, bought in 1 or 2 litre bottles from the local home decorating stores, has served me very well in the past. Although I now tend to use more acrylics these days.