How to Panel Line Your Gundam Kits: Techniques for Clean, Professional Results

Quick Answer

Panel lining your Gundam kits is the fastest way to add depth and realism. Use a fine-tipped panel liner pen or wash, apply it to recessed lines, and clean up excess with a soft eraser or cotton swab. Start small, practice on a spare part, and you'll get clean, professional results in no time.

Panel lining is one of the most rewarding steps in Gundam modeling. It brings out the intricate details of your kit, making it look sharper and more dynamic without needing advanced painting skills. Whether you're working on a High Grade or a Real Grade, a few careful lines can transform your build.

In this guide, we'll walk through the essential tools, step-by-step techniques, and common pitfalls to avoid. You'll learn how to achieve clean lines that make your Gundam stand out—whether you're displaying it on a shelf or entering a contest.

What You Need to Panel Line Your Gundam Kits

Before you start, gather your materials. The most common tools are panel lining pens (fine-tip and pour type), panel line accent wash, a cotton swab or eraser, and a hobby knife for cleaning nubs. You'll also want a cutting mat and good lighting to see the details clearly.

For beginners, a fine-tip panel liner pen is the easiest to control. More advanced modelers often prefer a panel line accent wash, which flows into the grooves by capillary action. Whichever you choose, test on a spare runner first to get a feel for the flow and cleanup.

• Use a fine-tip pen for thin, precise lines; a wash works well for deep grooves.
• Keep a soft eraser or cotton swab dampened with lighter fluid for cleanup—test on plastic first.

Step-by-Step Panel Lining Process

Start by assembling your kit, but panel line before final assembly if possible. This lets you reach every line without obstruction. Clean the parts of any dust or grease with a mild soap solution and let them dry completely.

Apply the liner along the recessed panel lines. For pens, gently trace the line; for washes, let the liquid flow naturally. Don't overload the area—less is more. After a few minutes, wipe away excess with a cotton swab or eraser, using a light touch to avoid smudging.

Let the panel lines dry completely before handling. If you're using a wash, ensure it's fully cured to prevent smearing. Once dry, you can topcoat with a clear matte or gloss finish to protect your work.

• Work in small sections to avoid smudging before cleanup.
• Use a magnifying lamp to catch fine details and avoid mistakes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One of the most common mistakes is applying too much liner, which can pool and create messy blobs. Always start with a light touch and build up if needed. Another issue is not cleaning the parts before lining—dirt or oil can cause the liner to bead up and not flow properly.

Rushing the cleanup is another pitfall. Wait the recommended drying time before wiping, and use a gentle, sweeping motion. If you do smudge, don't panic—you can often wipe it clean and reapply. Practice on a spare part until you're confident.

• Patience is key: let each step dry fully before moving on.
• Keep a cotton swab and lighter fluid handy for quick fixes.

Your Panel Lining Checklist

1. Prepare your workspace: Set up a clean, well-lit area with your tools within reach. Have a cutting mat to protect your table and keep parts organized. Checkpoint: Ensure you have a fine-tip pen or wash, cotton swabs, and a soft eraser before starting.
2. Clean the parts: Wash the runners with mild soap and water to remove mold release agents. Dry completely before panel lining. Checkpoint: No dust or grease on the plastic—this prevents liner from beading up.
3. Apply the liner: Trace the panel lines with a pen or let the wash flow into the grooves. Work in small sections and avoid overloading. Checkpoint: If lines look too thick, wipe and redo with a lighter touch.
4. Clean up excess: After a few minutes, wipe away smudges with a cotton swab or eraser. Use a gentle motion along the line. Checkpoint: Let the liner dry fully before handling or topcoating.
5. Protect your work: Once dry, apply a clear topcoat to seal the panel lines and protect the plastic from wear. Checkpoint: Choose matte for a realistic finish or gloss for a shiny look.

Panel Lining on Different Gundam Kits

• Gouf Custom HG: High Grade (HG) scale model kit of the Gouf Custom. Features articulated parts for dynamic posing. HG kits have shallow panel lines, so a fine-tip pen works best. The articulated parts let you practice lining in different poses.
• Earthree SD Cross Silhouette: SD (Super Deformed) scale model kit with a cute, compact appearance. Features the Cross Silhouette frame system for added articulation. SD kits have bold, chunky lines that are forgiving for beginners. The Cross Silhouette frame gives you extra surfaces to detail.

Panel lining is a simple skill that dramatically improves your Gundam kits. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you'll achieve clean, professional lines that make your models pop. Remember to start small, be patient, and enjoy the process—your next build will look better than ever.