ModelCalcs.uk
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.
How We Calculate This
Calculation Method
- Surface area estimated from scale and model type (heuristic table, cm²)
- Paint per colour = Surface area × Coverage rate × Coats × 40% average coverage
- Total paint = Paint per colour × Number of colours
- Thinner = Total paint × Thinning ratio (airbrush only; brush adds a fixed ~30%, rattle can none)
- Primer = Full surface × Coverage rate × 1.5
These coverage rates are a bench-tested estimating heuristic for the undiluted-equivalent volume, not an exact physical constant — real usage varies with paint brand, spray pressure and how heavily you load each coat. The 40% average-coverage factor reflects that detail and camo colours only touch part of the model, while one base colour covers most of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Estimate how much spray paint or primer you need for your model surface area.
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Last updated: March 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.