How to Use Guide for Micro-Mark Brush-On Thinner - #29277
What is Micro-Mark Brush-On Thinner? Micro-Mark Brush-On Thinner is a water-based additive designed to adjust the consistency of acrylic paints, ensuring smoother application and better control during brush painting.
Benefits:
Improves Flow: Enhances the paint's ability to flow smoothly, reducing brush marks.
Prevents Clumping: Helps maintain consistent paint texture, preventing clumps.
Enhances Detail Work: Allows for finer detail painting by achieving the desired paint consistency.
How to Use:
Prepare Your Paint:
Dispense the desired amount of acrylic paint onto your palette.
Add Thinner:
Using the bottle's applicator, add a small amount of Brush-On Thinner to the paint.
Start with a ratio of 1 part thinner to 10 parts paint and adjust as needed.
Mix Thoroughly:
Stir the mixture until the thinner is fully integrated, achieving a uniform consistency.
Test Consistency:
Before applying to your project, test the thinned paint on a scrap piece or inconspicuous area to ensure it meets your requirements.
Apply Paint:
Use your brush to apply the thinned paint, enjoying improved flow and reduced brush marks.
Tips:
Do Not Over-Thin: Excessive thinning can compromise paint adhesion and coverage.
Use Fresh Mixtures: Prepare only the amount needed for immediate use to maintain optimal performance.
Clean Tools Promptly: After painting, clean your brushes thoroughly to prevent residue buildup.
Is Micro-Mark Brush-On Paint Thinner better than other brands?
Micro-Mark Acrylic Paint Thinner is often considered superior to Vallejo's by modelers and hobbyists for several practical and performance-based reasons, especially when used in precision modeling, terrain painting, and airbrushing. Here’s a detailed comparison based on real-world user experience and formulation advantages:
Why Micro-Mark Acrylic Paint Thinner May Be Better than Vallejo's
1. More Versatile Formulation
Micro-Mark’s thinner is designed to work with a broader range of acrylic paints, including brush-on and airbrush-ready formulas.
Vallejo’s thinner is optimized only for Vallejo paints, particularly Model Color and Model Air. Micro-Mark Brush-On Thinner works with most other water-based acrylic paints
Result: Micro-Mark thinner tends to perform better with other brands and mixed paint media (e.g., home-mixed colors or paint + medium blends).
2. Better Pigment Suspension and Flow
Micro-Mark thinner includes flow enhancers and leveling agents that:
Prevent pigment separation
Improve paint flow
Reduce clogging in airbrush nozzles
Vallejo thinner is primarily a diluent with modest flow-enhancing properties.
Result: Micro-Mark offers smoother strokes and less tip-dry, especially in fine-detail work.
3. Greater Control in Airbrushing
Micro-Mark thinner allows for higher pigment retention at lower dilution, meaning:
You can thin paint more without it becoming too transparent
You maintain color intensity while improving atomization
Vallejo thinner sometimes produces inconsistent atomization if over-diluted.
Result: Micro-Mark provides more control, especially for fine lines or layering.
4. Larger Bottle Size = More Value
Micro-Mark thinner is sold in 8 oz bottles, which is ideal for high-volume users.
Vallejo thinner comes in 17 ml or 200 ml (6.67 oz) bottles—less economical per ounce. Micro-Mark’s Thinner is more the 30% less for the same amount of Vallejos.
Result: Micro-Mark offers better price-per-use, particularly for terrain builders, railroad modelers, and batch painters.
5. Minimal Odor and Non-Toxic Additives
Micro-Mark’s thinner is known for being low-odor and safer to use in enclosed spaces.
Both are water-based and non-toxic, but some users report that Micro-Mark is less irritating during prolonged use.
User Feedback Example:
“I used Vallejo thinner for years until I tried Micro-Mark’s, and the difference was night and day. Better flow, easier clean-up, and my airbrush hasn’t clogged since.” — Hobbyist review
When Vallejo Might Still Be Preferred
If you're using only Vallejo Model Air or Game Air, their thinner is guaranteed to match formulation perfectly.
It may also have slightly faster dry times in humid environments.
Conclusion
Micro-Mark Acrylic Paint Thinner is considered “better” than Vallejo’s Thinner because:
• Broader compatibility
• Enhanced flow and pigment retention
• Superior airbrush performance
• More thinner at a lower price for better cost efficiency for serious hobbyists
Is Micro-Mark’s Brush-On Paint Thinner better than The Army Painters?
Some consider Micro-Mark’s Thinner better:
- Micro-Mark’s Brush-First Formulation: Specifically designed for brush-on applications, making it ideal for precision figure painting.
- Micro-Mark’s Smoother Results: Users report fewer brush strokes and smoother gradients, especially when layering or glazing.
- Micro-Mark gives more for less: The 8 oz bottle gives more product for your money, especially useful for high-volume painters. Micro-Mark’s thinner is about half the price of The Army Painter for equal amounts
- Micro-Mark is Flexible Usage: Compatible not only with Micro-Mark paints but also with other major brands like Vallejo, Citadel, and The Army Painter.
- No Harsh Odor: Water-based and low-odor, safer for indoor hobby spaces.
- Micro-Mark Dropper Bottle Control – precision dropper.
Where Army Painter’s Thinner Has an Edge
- Airbrush Optimization: Better suited for use in airbrushes right out of the bottle for use with TAP airbrush paints.
The Verdict
Micro-Mark’s Brush-On Paint Thinner is better for most hobbyists using brushes, especially those working on tabletop miniatures and modeling. It provides smoother application, more generous volume, and better value. Meanwhile, The Army Painter’s Thinner is a solid choice if you airbrush frequently and prefer a thinner from the same paint line.
Micro-Mark Brush-On Thinner comparison to Vallejo Thinner and The Army Painter Thinner
