Paint your own figure: a first-timer's guide to tools, steps and tips
Buying a figure is one way to enjoy it. Finishing it yourself is another. FIGURO's unpainted figure is a blank sculpt made from your photo: pick the colours you love and turn it into a one-of-a-kind piece.
Here is a first-timer's guide to the steps, tools and tips. (The short version is on our painting guide page.)
What is an unpainted figure?
It is a figure printed in a single material colour, before any painting. Painting is not included. A full-colour figure arrives ready to display; the unpainted one lets you choose every colour yourself, and it costs less — from ¥6,980 (tax included) for the smallest size on the pricing page.
What you need
- Sandpaper (about 400–600 grit) to smooth the surface lines.
- Primer so the colour grips and doesn't flake.
- Acrylic paints: base colours plus small colours for the face and details.
- Brushes and a palette: a flat brush for large areas and a fine brush for details.
- Clear coat to protect the finish — matte, semi-gloss or gloss.
Paints and tools are not included; hobby, art and home-improvement shops stock them.
Four steps
1. Prepare the surface
Lightly stroke the surface with sandpaper to soften the layer lines. Don't press hard. Brush or wipe away the dust.
2. Prime
Apply a thin coat of primer and let it dry fully. A thick coat fills the details, so thin is the rule.
3. Paint your colours
Build up acrylic paint in thin layers: thin coat, dry, repeat. Start with large areas such as clothes and hair, and finish with eyes and lips using a fine brush.
4. Finish
Once the paint is completely dry, protect it with a clear coat. Matte looks calm; gloss looks bright.
Five tips
- Use a little paint at a time and build thin layers.
- Paint the face last — it sets the whole impression.
- Test any new paint somewhere hidden, such as under the base.
- Avoid watercolours: they don't stick well.
- Wait for each layer to dry; rushing makes colours muddy.
Ideas for family and friends
- Choose colours together: clothes, hair and base colours make a good conversation.
- One each: the same sculpt looks different in different hands.
- Give it as an activity: "paint it yourself" is a gift with something to do.
- Recreate a favourite outfit from the photo's colours.
Stay safe
Paint in a well-ventilated space and use gloves and a mask. Use spray paint outdoors or with good airflow, away from flames, and read every label. FIGURO figures are display pieces for ages 15+; if children join in, an adult must supervise.
Start with a free preview
Make a free AI preview from one photo first. Once you like how it looks, choose unpainted or full colour.
