How to Maintain and Display Your Rolife Painted Miniature Models

Whether you’re building a miniature house or collecting a doll figure, using your brushstrokes on our Rolife miniature kits can transform them into works of art. But the ride does not stop here; they need to be looked after. When they are well-maintained and displayed, they will look their best.

This blog post will share some maintenance tips and display ideas that will make your art stay beautiful.

How to Maintain Your Rolife Miniature Kit

Before Painting

To maintain your miniature model before painting, you should do the following:

1. Clean the Surface

Wash your models with a dry or wet cloth to remove any dirt and oil. Apply some quality primer to eliminate mold lines and leave a suitable surface to paint.

2. Thin Coats

Paint in thin coats to avoid dripping and messing the area.

3. Use a Retarder Medium

Use a retarder medium to allow the paint to level effectively for a smoother application.

Reference: Hearn's Hobbies

4. Avoid Touching the Model

Avoid touching the model while painting to avoid transferring stains and damaging the model.

5. Finish with Varnish or Sealant

After it has sufficiently dried, in approximately 24 hours, apply a finishing touch of varnish topcoat.

6. Clean Brushes Regularly

Clean your brushes regularly in between to avoid paint buildup. 

After Painting

1. Dust Regularly

Dust regularly, daily or weekly as required. Use a soft, dry cloth to sweep dust off the surfaces. A soft makeup brush or even an air blower can be used.

2. Avoid Water and Sprays

Do not use water or sprays directly on your DIY model.

3. Keep Away from Humid Environments

To avoid warping, do not store your miniature model in a humid environment. 

4. Protect from Direct Sunlight

Do not expose your model to direct sunlight. UV rays can cause discoloration and weaken adhesiveness.

5. Handle with Care

Handle your model with care. If you must hold and move around, use the sturdy areas, not the delicate parts.

6. Fix Loose Parts

If some parts of your miniature kit are loose, use a small amount of glue or some other adhesive to bind them up. If you see scratches, touch up with acrylic and add a varnish. 

Display Ideas for Rolife Miniature Models

Good Lighting

Use daylight bulbs, for example, for good lighting. Your DIY model is worth showing off. Good lighting will make the details and colors pop.

Magnification

Use magnification, like a visor, to paint intricate parts of your model. This will provide the finishing product with a smooth, professional touch.

Stable Grip

Be stable, rest your wrists on the table, or use a good painting handle, to improve brush control and improve the final look.

Decorative Bases

Use rotating decorative bases for your finished models. This will enable you and other guests to admire the piece from all angles. It is perfect for mechanical models to enhance presentation.

Glass Display Cases

Turn your home into a museum with glass display cases. It helps you keep your miniature free of dust and prying fingers without depriving it of the limelight. Those with LED lights add a magical touch and a museum-like elegance.

Floating Wall Shelves

Display the collection of your miniature puzzles at their eye level to be effective. LED strip lights should be used to create a dramatic effect.

Themed Corners

Design a warm ambience around your model involving related props. As an example, to make a library scene, you will need small books, to make a greenhouse scene, small plants, to make a kitchen scene, small pots, etc. This is perfect for storytelling and photography.

Note: Whatever display idea you choose, keep it dry and away from sunlight.

Conclusion

By painting and maintaining your DIY model, it will be durable over the years. If you want some inspiration, customize your next Rolife kit with a theme that interests you and apply these tips to make it cherished forever.

FAQs

1. How can I avoid brush strokes when painting?

Apply a thin layer of paint and dilute with water to ensure a smooth finish.

2. How do I prevent paint from chipping?

Apply thin layers, allowing each to dry fully before adding another. Seal the paint with a varnish spray, and handle the model gently.

3. Can I use nail polish markers to decorate my miniature model?

While some use nail polish markers, they may affect adhesion and damage parts. Acrylic paints provide better results and are the safest choice.

4. Can I repaint my old model?

If the paint is wearing off or you want to change colors, simply sand the surface, apply primer, and repaint.