Choosing your Vallejo Model Color paints: individual colours or sets

Start with what you want to paint

Before choosing a box, look at the model instructions or the image you want to use as a reference. List the colours of the larger areas first, then those for details such as skin, straps, tools, wood or metal parts.

If the instructions offer several colour schemes, choose one before buying the paints. You can then prepare the colours for that particular finish without collecting those needed for every alternative.

Vallejo Model Color is a range of acrylic paints for figures and models, particularly suited to brush painting. The current bottles hold 18 ml and have dropper tips. The range includes matt, metallic and transparent colours, so check the type of paint you need as well as the shade.

When should you buy individual colours, and when a set?

You can also combine both options: choose a set that covers much of the project and add the individual colours that are missing. Compare its contents with your list before deciding.

Two examples from the catalogue

These two boxes each contain 16 Model Color paints in 18 ml bottles, but they serve different purposes.

Check the reference, not just the name

Names may be translated or abbreviated. To check whether you already own a paint, or whether it appears in two sets, compare its full reference. For example, Model Color Black 70.950 may also appear as 70950, without the dot: it is the same reference.

On the set pages, you can select linked paint names to view the individual bottles. On the Model Color paint pages where we have identified matching sets, you will also find the sets that contain them. This lets you check what you own and replace a colour without buying another complete box.

Before adding the paints to your basket

1. Choose your model’s colour scheme. Make a list for that finish.
2. Check the bottles you already own. Compare references to avoid duplicates you do not need.
3. Read the set contents. Check the colours, range and bottle volume.
4. Check what else you need to get started. Paints, brushes and primer are separate items; check what each product actually includes.

A box of 16 colours can be useful if you will use its selection. For another project, a few carefully chosen bottles may cover your needs. Compare the options with your model in front of you.