Customize Your Arknights Figures: Tips and Tricks
You can customize your Arknights figures with some tools and ideas. This lets you show your style and make your favorite characters look real. You may feel nervous at first, but that is okay. Many people begin with no skills and find out it is fun to create something special.
Tip: Believe in your ideas and have fun each time. Your figures can show who you are!
Getting Started
Essential Tools
You need some tools before you start customizing. You do not have to buy everything right away. Begin with a few basic items. You can add more tools later. Here are some important tools for beginners:
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Hobby knife or craft blade helps you trim and shape.
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Fine sandpaper or sanding sticks make surfaces smooth.
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Small paintbrushes are good for painting details.
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Acrylic paints come in many colors you like.
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Tweezers help you hold tiny parts.
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Super glue or model cement is used to put pieces together.
Tip: Keep your workspace neat and tidy. This makes it easy to find your tools. It also keeps your figures safe.
You can learn new skills from online places. Many artists share their advice and ideas. Some good places to learn about figure customization are:
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YouTube has many tutorials.
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Figure drawing websites teach you how to draw.
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Online forums like the r/modelmakers subreddit let model builders talk and share.
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Social media groups connect Arknights fans.
Choosing Figures
There are lots of choices for your first Arknights figure. You can buy official figures from stores like Good Smile Company or Good Smile USA. Here at Bahomu, you can find a wide selection of official figures to start your project. If you want something special, look at Etsy for custom or handmade figures.
If you want a bigger challenge, try a model kit or an unassembled figure. These kits let you paint and build your own figure. For example, you can buy LING Horns STL files for $9.00 USD. You can also get a 3D printed LING Horns kit for $48.00 USD. These choices let you make your own style.
Many beginners have problems at first. Here are some common issues and ways to fix them:
Challenge |
Suggested Solution |
---|---|
My face looks nothing like me! |
Use a clear photo and ask for a face that looks real. |
The accessories are floating/missing/weird |
Put each accessory in its own spot, like a bubble next to the figure. |
The whole thing looks like AI art soup |
Make your design simple and give clear instructions. |
Remember: Everyone starts as a beginner. You will improve with practice and time!
Explore Our Arknights Figure Collection
Preparation
Cleaning and Priming
Before you start painting or sculpting, you need to clean your figure. Dust and oils can make paint peel or look uneven. Use mild soap and warm water to wash each part. Dry everything with a soft towel. If you see any rough spots, use fine sandpaper to smooth them out.
Priming helps paint stick better and makes colors pop. Spray a thin layer of primer over the figure. Hold the can about six inches away. Let it dry completely. If you use resin or plastic, both work well for beginners. Resin gives you a smooth finish and shows tiny details. Plastic is affordable and easy to handle.
Tip: Always work in a well-ventilated area when using paints or solvents. Wear a respirator mask if needed. Keep sharp tools away from kids and pets. Have a first aid kit nearby just in case.
Planning Design
Planning your design makes the whole process easier. Sketch your ideas on paper or use a computer. Try prototyping to spot any problems before you start painting. Many customizers use 3D printing for detailed prototypes. This helps you see how your figure will look and lets you fix mistakes early.
Set up a dedicated workspace. Pick a desk that feels comfortable. Adjust the height so your elbows rest at a good angle. This keeps you from getting tired or sore. If you use a computer for design, keep your keyboard and mouse at a neutral position.
You can track your progress with a simple chart or table. Here’s how experienced customizers organize their plans:
Feature |
Description |
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Planning |
Add operators, choose upgrades, and manage your list of materials. |
Depot Overview |
See what materials you have. Green means enough, red means you need more. |
Recipe Display |
Check recipes for materials and plan what you need for each upgrade. |
Color Settings |
Change colors in your planning tool to match your style. |
Sculpting and modifying figures lets you add cool details and accessories. Use tutorials to learn new tricks. Try new ideas and make your Arknights figure truly unique!
Customize Your Arknights Figures
Painting Tips
Painting is where you really start to see your ideas come to life. When you customize your Arknights figures, you can use many different paints and brushes. Acrylic paints work well because they dry fast and come in lots of colors. You can mix them to get the perfect shade for your favorite operator.
Choosing the right brush makes a big difference. Here are some brushes that many artists love:
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Artis Opus brushes feel smooth and help you paint tiny details.
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Winsor & Newton Series 7 brushes are famous for their fine tips. You can use them for eyes and small lines.
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Raphael 8404 brushes give you great quality for a lower price.
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Rosemary & Co brushes are good if you want to save money but still get nice results.
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Da Vinci Maestro brushes are another solid choice for painting figures.
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Games Workshop and Army Painter brushes are great if you are just starting out.
Start with a thin layer of paint. Let it dry before you add more. This helps you avoid clumps and keeps the colors bright. If you want to blend colors, use a damp brush and work slowly. You can always add more paint, but it is hard to take it off.
Tip: Practice on a spare piece of plastic before you paint your real figure. This helps you get used to the brush and paint.
Unassembled kits, like the Surtr GK, give you even more freedom. You can paint each part before you put the figure together. This makes it easier to reach small spots and add shadows or highlights.
Sculpting and Modifying
Sometimes you want to change your figure even more. Sculpting and modifying let you add new features or fix small problems. You can use modeling clay or epoxy putty to build up parts like hair, armor, or weapons. Shape the clay with your fingers or small tools. Let it dry before you paint it.
If you want to change the pose, you can cut and re-glue arms or legs. Sand the joints smooth so they fit together well. Always check how the figure looks from every angle. This helps you spot any odd shapes or lines.
Note: Take your time with sculpting. Small changes can make a big difference. If you make a mistake, you can sand it down and try again.
Many people like to customize your Arknights figures by adding battle damage, extra armor, or even new faces. You can use reference images from the game to get the details right. Try mixing different materials, like plastic and metal, for a unique look.
Accessories and Details
Accessories make your figure stand out. You can add things like weapons, hats, or pets. Some figures come with extra parts you can swap out. If you want something special, you can make your own with clay or 3D printing.
Some advanced kits offer cool features, like lighted panels. These panels can make your display shine and show off your hard work. You can find kits with LED lights or buy small lights online. Just be careful when you install them. Follow the instructions and test the lights before you glue everything together.
Here are some ideas for adding details:
Accessory Type |
How to Add It |
Extra Tip |
---|---|---|
Weapons |
Use glue or magnets |
Paint metallic parts for shine |
Hats |
Sculpt with clay or print |
Try different colors |
Pets |
Buy small animal models |
Paint eyes for more life |
Lighted Panels |
Install LEDs in the base |
Use clear plastic for effects |
When you customize your Arknights figures, you can also use decals or stickers for logos and symbols. These small touches help your figure look just like the character in the game.
Remember: Every time you customize your Arknights figures, you learn something new. Try new ideas and have fun with the process!
Finishing Touches
Sealing and Protection
You have finished painting and adding details. Now you want to keep your hard work safe. Sealing your figure is the best way to protect the paint and any changes you made. A good sealer acts like a shield. It stops scratches and keeps colors bright. You also avoid fading from sunlight or handling. For more tips on this, see our guide on the proper care and storage for game figures.
Here are some best practices for sealing your figure:
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Use a clear coat spray or brush-on varnish for protection.
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Always seal in a dry, warm place. Humidity can cause a cloudy finish.
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If you see a cloudy spot, try adding another thin layer of sealer.
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Choose a matte or gloss finish based on your style. Matte looks soft, while gloss shines.
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Spray lightly and evenly. Heavy coats may make the figure too shiny.
You can pick from several sealants. Each one has its own benefits. Check out this table to help you choose:
Sealant Name |
Key Features |
How to Use |
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Testors Clear Coat |
Protects from scratches, works on any surface |
Shake can, spray evenly, avoid humid/cold places |
Krylon ColorMaster Acrylic Crystal Clear |
Quick drying, won’t yellow, enhances colors |
Shake can, apply 2-3 coats, let dry between |
Vallejo Matt Model Color Varnish |
Non-toxic, easy to use, matte finish |
Brush or airbrush, thin with water or thinner |
Tip: Always test your sealer on a small area first. This helps you avoid surprises.
Display and Care
You want your customized figure to look great for a long time. Picking the right display spot matters. Try to keep your figure away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade paint and make plastic brittle. A glass cabinet or shelf works well. It keeps dust away and lets you show off your work.
Here are some easy ways to care for your figure:
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Dust your figure with a soft brush or cloth.
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Avoid touching painted areas with bare hands.
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Keep your display area clean and dry.
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Check for loose parts or fading every few months.
If your figure has special features, like lighted panels, check the batteries and wires. Make sure everything works before you show your figure to friends. You can even add a small label with the character’s name or your own design.
When you customize your Arknights Figures, you create something unique. Taking care of your figure means you can enjoy it for years. Show your figure to friends, share photos online, and feel proud of your work!
Common Mistakes
You might feel excited to start customizing your Arknights figures. Sometimes, you can rush in and make mistakes. That’s normal! Everyone learns by trying new things. Let’s look at some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
1. Skipping Prep Work
You may want to jump straight into painting. If you skip cleaning and priming, paint can peel or look uneven. Always wash your figure and use primer. This step helps your colors stay bright and smooth.
2. Using Too Much Paint
Thick paint hides details. You should use thin layers and let each one dry. If you see clumps, wipe them off and start again. Practice on a spare part first.
3. Rushing the Process
You might feel impatient. If you rush, you can miss small details or make mistakes. Take your time. Let paint and glue dry fully before moving on.
4. Ignoring Safety
Paints and glues can be strong. Work in a space with good airflow. Wear a mask if you use sprays. Keep sharp tools away from your hands and eyes.
5. Forgetting to Plan
If you don’t plan your design, you can get stuck or confused. Sketch your ideas first. Make a list of colors and accessories. Planning saves time and helps you stay organized.
6. Overhandling the Figure
Touching painted areas can leave fingerprints or smudges. Hold your figure by the base or use gloves. Let everything dry before you touch it.
Tip: Mistakes help you learn. If you mess up, you can fix it. Sand down rough spots or repaint areas. You get better every time you try!
Here’s a quick table to help you spot and fix mistakes:
Mistake |
How to Fix It |
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Thick paint |
Use thinner layers |
Peeling paint |
Clean and prime first |
Smudges |
Let paint dry, use gloves |
Broken parts |
Glue carefully, let dry |
😊 Remember, you’re building skills. Every mistake is a step forward!
You learned how to pick tools, plan your design, and add cool details to your Arknights figures. Try new ideas and don’t worry about mistakes. Every project helps you get better.
Tip: Share your custom figures online or with friends. You might inspire someone else to start!
Practice and patience make your skills grow. Keep creating, keep learning, and have fun showing off your unique style! Your next masterpiece could start with a figure from Bahomu. 😊
FAQ
How do I fix paint mistakes on my figure?
If you mess up, let the paint dry. Use fine sandpaper to smooth the area. Paint over it with thin layers. Practice on a spare part first.
Tip: Mistakes help you learn new skills!
Can I use regular craft paints for my Arknights figures?
You can use craft paints, but acrylic model paints work better. They stick well and show bright colors. Model paints also dry fast and last longer.
Try a small test before painting your whole figure.
What should I do if a part breaks during customization?
Don’t worry! Use super glue or model cement to fix broken parts. Hold the pieces together until they set.
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For small cracks, fill with epoxy putty.
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Let everything dry before painting.
Where can I find inspiration for custom designs?
Look at game art, fan creations, or social media. Search for Arknights DIY customization groups online.
Source |
What You Get |
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Game Gallery |
Official character art |
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Fan ideas and tips |
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Photos and videos |
Is it safe for kids to customize figures?
Kids can customize figures with adult help. Always use safe tools and paints.
Note: Keep sharp objects and strong glues away from children. Supervise painting and assembly for safety.