How much paint do I need for a 1:48 aircraft?

A typical 1:48 aircraft needs about 3-5ml of paint per colour if airbrushed with 2 coats. With 5-6 colours, expect to use 15-25ml of paint total plus thinner. One 17ml pot of each colour is usually enough.

Does airbrushing use more or less paint than brushing?

Airbrushing uses less paint per coat than brushing because it applies thinner, more even layers. However, you need thinner as well (typically 1:1 to 2:1 thinner to paint), which increases total liquid volume. Overall, airbrushing is more efficient with paint.

How much primer do I need?

Primer covers the entire model surface. For a 1:48 aircraft, expect to use about 2-3ml of spray primer. A single 180ml rattle can of primer is enough for many models.

Should I thin paint for brushing?

Yes, slightly thinned paint flows better and avoids visible brush strokes. Add about 10-30% thinner for brush painting. Thin enough that the paint flows smoothly but still covers in 2-3 coats.

ModelCalcs

Paint Quantity Calculator — Paint Needed for Model Kits

Calculate how much paint you need for a model kit based on scale, type and painting method.

Model ScaleSelect the model scale

Model TypeSelect the type

Painting MethodSelect the method

Number of Colours

Number of different yarn colours used

How We Calculate This

Calculation Method

Surface area estimated from scale and model type
Paint per colour = Surface area \u00D7 Coverage rate \u00D7 Coats \u00D7 40% average coverage
Total paint = Paint per colour \u00D7 Number of colours
Thinner = Total paint \u00D7 Thinning ratio (airbrush only)
Primer = Full surface \u00D7 Coverage rate \u00D7 1.5

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Paint Mix Calculator

Mix two or more paint colours by ratio to get the exact shade you need.

Thinning Ratio Calculator

Calculate the correct paint-to-thinner ratio for brush, airbrush or spray can.

Airbrush Pressure Calculator

Find the recommended PSI setting for your paint type, nozzle size and technique.

Spray Coverage Calculator

Estimate how much spray paint or primer you need for your model surface area.

Wash Mix Calculator

Calculate the paint-to-medium ratio for panel line washes and pin washes.

Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.