Quick answer

Match the thinner to the paint: use TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner for enamel paints and TAMIYA X-20A Acrylic Thinner for acrylics such as Tamiya X-22 Gloss. Add thinner a little at a time and stir rather than shake.

Why the paint type decides the thinner

Enamel and acrylic paints use different solvents, so a thinner that works for one can curdle or weaken the other. X-20 is formulated for enamels, while X-20A is made especially for acrylics and is the one Tamiya recommends for controlling the flow of X-22 Gloss. If you are unsure which paint you have, check the jar label before opening any thinner.

The practical cost of mixing them up is a ruined batch of paint and extra cleanup. Keep the two bottles clearly separated on your bench, and never pour thinned paint back into the original jar.

What the 40ml bottle means for your workflow

The TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner comes in a 40ml bottle, which is a practical size for occasional enamel work and small touch-ups. Because both thinners are highly flammable, store them away from open flame and excessive heat, and keep them out of reach of children. Work in a ventilated area and wear gloves if you have a history of skin reactions.

Step-by-step: thinning model paint with TAMIYA thinners

  1. Identify your paint type: Read the paint jar label and confirm whether it is enamel or acrylic. Choose X-20 for enamel and X-20A for acrylic; if the label is unclear, do not guess. Keep the two thinner bottles apart on your bench to avoid a mix-up.
  2. Prepare a small test batch: Pour a small amount of paint into a clean mixing cup rather than thinning the whole jar. This limits waste if the ratio is wrong. Never thin paint directly in the original bottle.
  3. Add thinner in small increments: Add thinner a few drops at a time and stir with a clean stick. Stop when the paint flows off the stirrer in a thin, even line. Over-thinning is harder to fix than under-thinning, so add less than you think you need.
  4. Stir, do not shake: Stir gently to avoid introducing air bubbles that can show up as pinholes in the finish. Let the mix sit for a minute before painting. If bubbles appear, wait rather than painting immediately.
  5. Test on a scrap piece: Brush or spray a thin coat onto a spare plastic card or runner. Check for coverage and smoothness before committing to the model. A test card reveals whether the paint is still too thick or already too thin.
  6. Clean up and store safely: Wipe tools promptly, wash skin after contact, and close both bottles tightly. Store them away from heat and open flame and out of reach of children. Proper storage protects the thinner and keeps your workspace safe.

Product facts

  • TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner 40ml: TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner is a 40ml bottle intended for enamel paints. Use it only with enamels so you do not spoil acrylic paint or waste a batch.

    TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner 40ml

    TAMIYA X-20 Enamel Thinner 40ml

  • TAMIYA X-20A Acrylic Thinner: TAMIYA X-20A Acrylic Thinner is made especially for use with Tamiya X-22 Gloss. It lets you adjust the flow of gloss acrylics without switching to a different paint line.

    TAMIYA X-20A Acrylic Thinner

    TAMIYA X-20A Acrylic Thinner