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Gundam Markers: Which Type to Buy and How to Use Them

The Gundam Marker types explained: fine-tip, pouring inking pen, Liner Sharp, metallic and EX markers, which to buy first, and how to use them safely on ABS.

By Gundam Models editorial teamUpdated 3 min readHow we research

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A built Gundam Exia plastic model in blue, white and red

Gundam Markers are hobby markers made by GSI Creos under its Mr. Hobby brand for coloring and lining Gunpla. Buy a fine-tip black or gray marker first for panel lines, then a metallic or color set for details. Check the label: Bandai warns that alcohol-based Gundam Markers must not be used on parts from runners marked ABS.

Bandai’s beginner guide sends builders who want to ink and paint straight to Gundam Markers, and Wikipedia describes inking the panel lines as one of the basic ways builders customize a kit.

The Gundam Marker types

A built Gundam Exia plastic model in blue, white and red
Markers pick out vents, eyes and panel lines on a snap-built kit.

Mr. Hobby’s Gundam Marker product list includes these ranges:

Marker What it is for
G.Marker (single colors) Coloring details in a specific color
Fine Edge sets Fine lines and small details
Pouring inking pen set Panel lines: ink flows into the recess
Gundam Marker Liner Sharp Panel lines with a fine, sharp tip
Metallic marker sets Metal-look details such as vents and thrusters
Gundam Marker EX Special finishes such as plated silver
Gundam Marker Airbrush System Spraying color from a Gundam Marker
Advanced and series sets Mixed colors for a style of build

The names come from Mr. Hobby’s product list; the uses are what each product name describes.

Which to buy first

  1. A fine-tip black or gray marker for panel lining. It changes how a kit looks more than any other marker.
  2. A metallic set for thrusters, vents and weapons.
  3. Single colors to fix sticker areas, such as eyes or small markings, with paint instead.

Gundam Markers

Shop gundam Markers

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Using Gundam Markers safely

Safety

Bandai’s notes on tools: when using Gundam Markers, ventilate the room well and let the ink dry fully. Gundam Markers labeled alcohol-based cannot be used on parts whose runner is marked “ABS”, because they may damage the plastic. Gunpla is mostly polystyrene with some ABS parts, according to Wikipedia.

Tips for clean results

  • Test first. Try a marker on a spare runner to see the color and how fast it dries.
  • Shake paint markers and press the tip until the ink flows, following the instructions on the marker.
  • Thin lines on clean parts. Draw once, smoothly, rather than going back and forth.
  • Wipe mistakes while wet with a cotton swab.
  • Let ink dry before a top coat, and spray the first coat lightly.

Fixing sticker areas with markers

Many High Grade and SD Gundam kits use stickers for small colors, such as eyes, sensors and vents. Wikipedia notes classic SD kits need paint and detailing to match the box, and that Real Grade’s selling point is color accuracy without color-correcting stickers, which shows how often lower grades rely on them. A color marker can replace those stickers:

  1. Match the color to the sticker or the box art.
  2. Fill small recessed areas with the marker tip, a little at a time.
  3. Clean the edges with a cotton swab before the ink sets.
  4. Seal the area with a light top coat once dry.

Markers on Gunpla and other kits

Gundam Markers work on other plastic models too. For glued kits in polystyrene, Airfix’s essential tools list paints and brushes, but a marker is handy for small details such as instrument panels or lights. Follow the same label check for alcohol-based markers on any plastic you are unsure of.

Markers or paint?

Markers are the easy way into color: no brushes, no thinner and quick cleanup. For large areas, brush or spray paint gives a more even finish. The painting guide covers that next step. For the other tools on a beginner’s list, see Gunpla tools, and for clean parts before you color them, see sanding sticks.

Frequently asked questions

Which Gundam Marker should I buy first?

A fine-tip black or gray marker for panel lines. It is the most useful single marker on any kit. Add a metallic set, such as a Gundam Marker metallic set, when you want to pick out details.

Are Gundam Markers safe on all Gunpla parts?

Not all of them. Bandai warns that Gundam Markers labeled alcohol-based cannot be used on parts whose runner is marked ABS, because they may damage the plastic. Check the marker's label and the runner.

How do I remove Gundam Marker ink?

Wipe it off while it is still wet with a cotton swab or a soft eraser on panel line ink. Once ink has set on a part, test any cleaner on a hidden spot first, because some solvents can damage the plastic.

What is a Gundam Marker pouring inking pen?

It is a Gundam Marker for panel lines that releases thin ink into a recessed line when you touch the tip to it. Mr. Hobby sells it as the Gundam Marker pouring inking pen set.

Filed under ToolsStart with Gunpla Tools: What You Need to Build Your First Kit

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