Quick answer
To get a clean, durable custom on your Omi DIY, start with a light sanding, use thin coats of acrylic paint, and finish with a protective sealant to avoid chipping.
Why Omi DIY is a great canvas
The Omi DIY from Munky King is a 3.5-inch ABS figure inspired by Chinese opera and Japanese Oni masks. Its blank surface and sculpted details give you a clear area to work with, while the embossed rubber peg and acrylic frame make it easy to handle and display after painting.
Because the figure is made of ABS plastic, it does not need primer the way resin figures do, but a light sanding still helps paint stick better. The separate base and frame also mean you can paint the figure and base in different colors without worrying about overspray.
Choosing your paints and tools
Acrylic paints are the best choice for vinyl and ABS figures because they adhere well, dry quickly, and are easy to thin. Avoid enamel or oil-based paints, which can stay tacky and attract dust.
You'll need a few basic tools: a hobby knife or sandpaper for prep, fine brushes for details, and a clear sealant (matte or gloss) to protect the finish. Masking tape helps keep the acrylic frame and base clean if you want to paint only the figure.
Step-by-step customization process
- Prep the surface: Lightly sand the entire figure with fine-grit sandpaper (400-600 grit) to create a tooth for the paint. Wipe off dust with a tack cloth or a soft dry cloth. Skipping sanding can lead to paint peeling later.
- Plan your color scheme: Decide on your colors and sketch a rough design on paper. Consider the Omi's sculpted details—the ears and accessories can be highlighted with contrasting colors. Having a plan reduces the need for repainting.
- Apply thin base coats: Use a small brush or airbrush to apply thin, even coats of acrylic paint. Wait for each coat to dry completely before adding another. Two to three thin coats give better coverage than one thick coat. Thick coats can obscure fine details and take longer to dry.
- Add details and highlights: Use a fine brush to paint small details like eyes, patterns, or accent lines. Let each color dry before moving to an adjacent area to avoid smudging. Work from light to dark colors to make corrections easier.
- Seal the finish: Once the paint is fully dry, apply a clear sealant in a well-ventilated area. Use matte for a flat finish or gloss for a shiny look. Spray in light coats to avoid drips. Sealing protects the paint and makes the figure easier to clean.
- Reassemble and display: After the sealant dries, place the figure on the acrylic base and frame. Handle by the peg or base to avoid fingerprints on the painted surface. Display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading over time.
Product facts
-
Omi - DIY: The Omi DIY is a 3.5-inch ABS figure with an acrylic frame and base, and it comes as a blind box. Its compact size and removable frame make it easy to handle while painting, and the blind box element means you'll get a fun surprise before starting your custom.
Omi - DIY