Elena Rossi
Ball-jointed dolls (BJDs) are highly customizable, and their owners can change their appearance in a variety of ways. One way to do this is by painting the BJD's resin to match a desired skin tone. This can be done through various methods, including airbrushing, spray painting, dying, or using chalks and sealants. However, altering the skin tone of a BJD can be challenging due to the potential for errors and the difficulty of reversing the process. Additionally, darker resin colours are more prone to issues such as snowflaking and air bubbles, and the colour of BJDs tends to change over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you paint BJD resin to match skin tone? | Yes, it is possible to paint BJD resin to match a desired skin tone. |
| Common paint types | Acrylic paint, chalk pastels, watercolour, spray paint |
| Common dye types | Idye poly, RIT dye |
| Preparation | Clean and prepare the surface, sand the surface to remove rough spots, prime the head |
| Sealants | Mr. Super Clear Matt/Flat, Zoukei-mura Finishing Powder Spray, clear resin |
| Tips | Use thin coats of paint, allow coats to dry thoroughly before reapplying, cover the head with sealant varnish before painting to protect from staining |
| Common issues | Yellowing, greening, mellowing, snowflaking, air bubbles |
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What You'll Learn
Spray paint vs. dyeing resin
Painting BJD resin to match a specific skin tone can be tricky, and there are a few different methods to consider. Spray paint and dyeing are two popular options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Spray paint is a convenient way to add colour to resin, and it can be done with either an airbrush or a traditional spray can. When using spray paint, it is important to use a primer to ensure that the paint adheres properly and does not peel or chip off. There are different types of primers available, including spray primers and paint-on primers, and they typically come in white, black, or grey. It is recommended to use a white or grey primer for lighter colours and a black primer for darker colours. Spray paint can be an effective way to achieve a smooth and even finish, but it is important to work in a well-ventilated area and protect the surrounding area from overspray.
On the other hand, dyeing resin involves using a colourant that is mixed directly into the resin before it is cured. This method creates a more permanent colour that will not chip or peel off. There are various resin colourants available, such as mica powder, acrylic paint, and specialised resin tints. When choosing a colourant, it is important to avoid oil-based paints, watercolours, latex paint, spray paint, nail polish, ground spices, and food colouring, as these can negatively affect the resin's cure or leave a grainy finish. Instead, opt for highly pigmented colourants specifically designed for use with epoxy resin.
Both spray painting and dyeing have their own benefits. Spray painting allows for more control over the colour and design, making it ideal for creating intricate details and achieving specific skin tones. It is also a good option for those who want to work with pre-made resin pieces. Dyeing, on the other hand, results in a more durable and long-lasting colour that will not chip or peel. It is a good choice for those who are comfortable working with resin in its liquid form and want a more permanent solution.
When it comes to changing the skin tone of a BJD, spray painting is often recommended for the head, as it does not articulate and therefore chipping is not an issue. Dyeing, on the other hand, can be a good option for staining the resin a different colour, but it may require more experimentation to achieve the desired skin tone. It is always a good idea to test any method on a small piece of the resin or a similar material before committing to the entire project.
Ultimately, the decision between spray painting and dyeing resin depends on personal preference, the level of permanence desired, and the specific project at hand. Both methods can be successful in achieving a desired skin tone, but it is important to consider the unique characteristics and challenges of each approach.
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Preparing the BJD resin surface
Cleaning the Surface
Before starting the painting process, it is crucial to clean the BJD resin surface thoroughly. Use a magic clean eraser to remove any previous paint, dust, or residue. Ensure that the eraser does not leave any dust or particles on the surface after cleaning.
Sanding and Priming
Once the surface is clean, you may need to sand it to remove any rough spots or blemishes. Sanding creates a smoother base for the paint to adhere to. After sanding, prime the surface with a suitable primer, such as a white gesso primer, to provide an even base for the paint.
Sealant Application
Before applying paint, it is essential to seal the BJD resin surface. Use a sealant specifically designed for resin, such as Tamiya sealant or a resin-safe sealant. Apply at least two to three coats of the sealant, allowing proper dry time between coats. This step is crucial to protect the resin and prevent staining from certain paints, especially darker colors like black, red, and other intense hues.
Testing the Paint
After the sealant is completely dry, it is a good idea to test the paint on a small area of the BJD, such as the head cap, to ensure it adheres correctly and achieves the desired color. This step allows for any necessary adjustments before proceeding with the full painting.
Additional Surface Preparation Techniques
There are also other techniques you can use to prepare the BJD resin surface for painting. For example, if you plan to use pastels, you can apply a matte varnish to create a rough surface that will better hold the pastel medium. Additionally, if you intend to use watercolors, you can dilute the paint and test it on paper first to ensure it is ready for application.
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Choosing the right paint
Painting a BJD resin doll can be an enjoyable experience, allowing you to customise its appearance and create a unique look. Before you begin, it's essential to choose the right paint to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the paint for your BJD resin doll:
Paint Type
The most commonly recommended paint type for BJD resin dolls is acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is water-based, making it easy to work with and clean up. It is also effective for adding texture to the doll's face and creating a natural shine for the eyes and lips. Additionally, acrylic paint can be used in combination with other materials, such as pastels, to create the desired skin tone.
Paint Quality
When choosing your paint, opt for high-quality options specifically designed for use on dolls. Light-resistant paint is crucial to prevent discolouration and fading over time. Ensure that the paint you select is suitable for the material of your doll, as using the wrong type of paint could damage the resin.
Sealants and Primers
To protect your paint work and ensure its longevity, it is essential to use a sealant. Sealants help prevent chipping and fading, preserving the appearance of your doll. There are various sealants available, such as Mr. Super Clear Matt/Flat and Zoukei-mura Finishing Powder Spray, which are commonly used by BJD enthusiasts. Applying a primer before painting can also provide a smooth and even base for your paint work.
Practice and Technique
Customising a BJD resin doll requires practice and the development of specific skills. It is recommended to have the right tools and techniques before starting. You can achieve stunning results with preparation and experimentation. Practising on paper or a separate test piece before applying paint to the doll's head can help you perfect your technique and avoid mistakes.
Colour Matching
When choosing paint colours to match a specific skin tone, consider using a colour wheel to identify complementary colours and create the desired shade. Mixing paints can help you achieve the perfect match. Additionally, using reference images or seeking inspiration from other customisers can guide you in selecting the right paint colours.
Additional Considerations
Before painting, ensure that the surface of the doll's head and the parts you intend to paint are clean and prepared. This may involve sanding the surface to create a smooth base. It is also essential to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator to avoid inhaling any paint fumes.
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Applying paint coats
Preparing the Paint
Dilute the paint to achieve the desired skin tone. For a reddish-brown shade, add some orange and white chalk to the mix. If the brown paint is too red, add a bit of green to tone it down. Test the paint on paper to ensure it's ready for application. If it leaves dots but not drops of water, it's good to go.
Applying the Paint
Use a brush that feels right in your hand to apply the paint evenly to the resin. For jointed hands, ensure the first coat is applied with the palm flat and fingers straight out. Focus on building up thin layers gradually to avoid clumps and ensure even coverage. Be cautious, as the paint can dry quickly, and you might need to start over.
Adding Details
Once the base coat is complete, it's time to add details such as eyebrows, eyelashes, and lips. Choose a pencil that matches the hair colour for the eyebrows and use short strokes in their natural direction. For eyelashes, use thin strokes of black ink or pencil, or other colours like white or pink. Use pastels or watercolour pencils for the lips, avoiding sharp lines.
Final Touches
Add any additional colour details like blush, shadows, or highlights to bring the face together. To create a natural shine on the lower eyelids, eyewells, and lips, use a varnish. If you want to create uneven blushing, apply pastels with a light touch to create blotches, mimicking skin texture. Seal your creation with a high-quality sealant to protect the resin and prevent yellowing or damage.
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Sealants to protect the paint
Painting a BJD resin doll is a great way to achieve a desired skin tone. However, it is important to protect the paint with a sealant to ensure longevity and prevent staining.
There are several sealants available that can be used to protect the paint on a BJD resin doll. One option is to use a clear coat sealant such as Testors Dullcote, which can be sprayed on and dries quickly with a smooth, matte finish. This sealant does not leave any shine or residue and allows for the smooth application of pastels or other paints on top.
Another popular option is Mr. Super Clear (MSC), which comes in several varieties, including Matt, Satin, Gloss, and UV Cut Flat. The Matt and UV Cut Flat versions are particularly useful. Matt MSC creates a matte layer that allows for the easy application of pastels, while UV Cut Flat MSC protects the doll from the negative effects of UV rays, such as yellowing and discolouration.
Citadel Munitorum Varnish is another sealant that has been recommended by BJD enthusiasts. It dries quickly and has a slightly satin finish, though it is said to be similar to MSC.
Additionally, some artists choose to seal their pastels with varnish before applying paint. This can create a rough surface that helps the paint adhere better. However, it may result in a grainy texture that some may not prefer.
It is worth noting that some sealants may not provide adequate protection against staining. For example, Liquitex matte medium has been described as having good adhesion but offering little protection against staining.
When choosing a sealant, it is important to consider the desired finish, the protection offered, and the ease of application and removal. Testing sealants on a small area or a practice piece before applying them to the entire doll is always a good idea.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can change the skin tone of a BJD by painting or dyeing it.
You can use spray paint, dye, airbrush, or apply layers of chalk pastel with a clear spray sealant.
Before painting, clean and prepare the surface of the head and the parts you want to paint. Sand the surface to remove any rough spots and prime the head to provide a smooth base. Use thin coats of high-quality, light-resistant acrylic paint designed for dolls and apply multiple coats for the desired opacity. After painting, apply a sealant to protect the paint and prevent chipping or fading.
Darker resin colours are harder to make and prone to problems like snowflaking and air bubbles. The colour of the BJD will change over time due to the quality of the resin, and this can be slowed down by keeping the doll out of direct sunlight.
