Lacquer Paint Thinner 10ml LP-10

The reference solvent for working with Tamiya LP lacquers

The Tamiya LP-10 Lacquer Paint Thinner is the official solvent formulated by Tamiya for its Lacquer Paint (LP) range. With a 10 ml format, it is particularly practical to have on hand during painting sessions without taking up space on the workbench.

Main applications

• Paint thinning: allows you to adjust the viscosity of LP bottles for airbrush or brush, adapting it to each technique and surface.
• Airbrush cleaning: effectively dissolves lacquer residues in the cup, needle, and nozzle, facilitating equipment maintenance between colours.
• Restoring bottles: helps to rehydrate paint that has begun to thicken due to solvent evaporation.

Compatibility

This solvent is specifically formulated for Tamiya's Lacquer Paint LP range. It is not suitable for acrylic paints (X or XF range) or enamels (X range with enamel base), which have their own thinners. Use it only with compatible products to avoid finishing issues or damage to already painted surfaces.

Application tips

• Add the solvent drop by drop until the desired viscosity is reached, never all at once.
• For airbrush, an approximate dilution of 1 part solvent to 1-2 parts paint is usually a good starting point, although it may vary depending on working pressure and nozzle diameter.
• Always work in a well-ventilated area: lacquers and their solvents generate vapours that require adequate ventilation.
• Close the bottle tightly after each use to prevent evaporation.

Considerations

Tamiya LP lacquers are high-pigmentation solvent-based paints, highly valued in static modelling for their hardness and finish once cured. However, their vapours are more intense than those of acrylic paints, so using a mask with an active filter and good ventilation is highly recommended. On unprimed plastic models, lacquers can attack the material if applied too close or in heavy layers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use LP-10 to clean the airbrush between sessions?

Yes, it is one of its most common uses. Run several loads of LP-10 through the airbrush after finishing painting to dissolve lacquer residues and keep the equipment in perfect condition.

Does LP-10 work with Tamiya acrylic paints (X or XF)?

No. Tamiya acrylic paints require their own acrylic thinner (X-20A). LP-10 is reserved exclusively for the LP lacquer range.

How much solvent do I add to LP paint for airbrush?

As a starting point, an approximate ratio of 1:1 or 1:2 (solvent:paint) usually works well, depending on compressor pressure and nozzle diameter. Adjust according to the results you get in the first sprays on paper.

Is the 10 ml format enough for a complete project?

For a small project or a few pieces, it may be sufficient. If you are going to paint large models or several figures, consider having more than one bottle on hand. The small format is very convenient to keep on the bench without the solvent evaporating during long sessions.

Do LP lacquers attack the plastic of models?

They can do so if applied excessively or very close to the unprimed surface. It is recommended to always use a primer coat beforehand and apply lacquers in thin layers.

Tamiya LP-10 Lacquer Paint Thinner 10ml — the essential solvent for thinning, cleaning and maintaining your Tamiya Lacquer Paint LP range. Perfect for scale modellers working with lacquer paints on plastic model kits, figures and dioramas. Achieves smooth airbrush application and keeps your equipment in top condition. A must-have accessory for any modelling workbench.