How to panel line Gunpla

Panel lining darkens the engraved lines on a kit so the detail stands out. It is the single fastest upgrade for a straight build.

01
Pick your color
Use black on dark parts, grey on white or light parts, and brown on red or yellow parts. Pure black on white looks harsh.
02
Trace the lines with a fine marker
Run the tip along the groove. Don't worry about going over the edges.
03
Wipe off the excess
Rub across the line with a fingertip or a cotton swab. The ink stays in the groove and comes off the flat surface.
04
Use an eraser for stubborn spots
A plastic eraser cleans up marks the swab missed.
05
Seal it
A matte top coat protects the lines from smudging when you pose the kit.

Using enamel wash instead of a marker? Never apply it to bare plastic joints or stressed parts. Enamel thinner can make ABS and polycaps crack.

Next: clean up nub marks so your panel lines aren't the only thing people notice.

New kits, build tips, one email a week.