How to Panel Line Gunpla: Complete Guide for Clean Results

Panel lining is the single easiest upgrade you can make to any Gunpla kit. With just a few minutes of extra work, panel lines add depth, definition, and a professional look that transforms a plain build into something eye-catching.

What is panel lining? It's the process of filling in the recessed lines (panel lines) on a Gunpla kit with ink or paint to create shadows and define mechanical detail. The lines are already molded into every Bandai kit — you're just making them visible.

This guide covers three popular panel lining methods from easiest to most advanced, plus tips for getting clean results every time.

Why Panel Line Your Gunpla?

Straight out of the box, most Gunpla kits look "flat" — the panel lines are there but hard to see because they're the same color as the surrounding plastic. Panel lining adds contrast that:

• Defines individual armor panels and mechanical details
• Adds depth and realism to the model
• Makes the kit look dramatically better in photos
• Takes only 10–30 minutes for most kits
• Requires minimal tools and skill

Method 1: Fine-Tip Gundam Markers (Easiest)

What You Need

• Gundam Marker GM01 (Black, fine tip) — for dark-colored parts
• Gundam Marker GM02 (Gray, fine tip) — for white or light-colored parts
• Eraser or cotton swab with rubbing alcohol

How to Do It

Step 1: Shake the marker and test on paper first. You want a consistent, fine line.

Step 2: Trace the marker tip along each panel line. Let the tip sit in the groove — surface tension will pull the ink along the line naturally.

Step 3: If you go outside the line, immediately wipe with an eraser or a cotton swab dipped lightly in rubbing alcohol.

Step 4: Let dry for 5–10 minutes before handling.

Tips for Fine-Tip Markers

• Use gray on white parts — black on white looks too harsh
• Use black on dark or colored parts (blue, red, gray armor)
• Work in sections — panel line one limb at a time
• Clean mistakes immediately — dried marker is harder to remove

Best for: Absolute beginners. Zero learning curve, minimal supplies, good results.

Method 2: Pour-Type Gundam Markers (Recommended)

What You Need

• Gundam Marker Pour Type (Black, Gray, or Brown)
• Cotton swabs
• Lighter fluid or Gundam Marker eraser pen

How to Do It

Step 1: Shake well. The pour-type marker has a pointed tip designed to deposit a small bead of ink.

Step 2: Touch the tip to a panel line — don't drag it. The capillary action will pull the ink along the groove automatically. One touch can fill several centimeters of line.

Step 3: Let the ink flow and dry for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Clean up any overflow with a cotton swab dipped in lighter fluid (naphtha). Wipe gently across the surface — the ink will come off the flat surface but stay in the grooves.

Tips for Pour-Type Markers

• This is the most popular method among experienced builders — fast and clean
• Works best on bare plastic (unpainted kits)
• Don't press hard — just touch the line gently
• Brown pour-type on white parts gives a subtle, natural look
• Clean up is the key — a good wipe makes lines crisp

Best for: Most builders. Best balance of ease, speed, and results.

Method 3: Enamel Wash (Most Advanced)

What You Need

• Tamiya Panel Line Accent Color (Black, Dark Gray, or Brown)
• Enamel thinner (Tamiya X-20)
• Fine-tip brush or the bottle's built-in brush
• Cotton swabs

How to Do It

Step 1: Shake the bottle well. The panel line accent is a thin enamel paint designed to flow into recesses.

Step 2: Touch the brush to a panel line — the wash will flow along the groove by capillary action, similar to pour-type markers.

Step 3: Let dry for 5–10 minutes.

Step 4: Clean excess with a cotton swab dampened with enamel thinner. Wipe perpendicular to the panel line for the cleanest results.

Important Warning

Enamel thinner can damage bare plastic. If you use enamel wash on an unpainted kit, be very careful — prolonged contact with thinner can cause stress marks or cracking, especially on joints and thin parts. For safety, apply a clear coat (like Mr. Hobby Top Coat) before using enamel wash, or stick with pour-type Gundam Markers on unpainted kits.

Best for: Painted kits or experienced builders who've applied a protective clear coat first.

Color Guide: Which Panel Line Color to Use

Common Panel Lining Mistakes

• Using black on white parts — Looks harsh and unnatural. Use gray or brown instead.
• Not cleaning up overflow — Cleanup is 80% of the process. Always wipe excess for clean lines.
• Pressing too hard with markers — Let capillary action do the work. Touch, don't push.
• Using enamel wash on bare plastic without protection — Apply a clear coat first or use Gundam Markers instead.
• Panel lining assembled kits — It's much easier to panel line individual pieces before final assembly.

Panel Lining Method Comparison

Where to Get Panel Lining Supplies

P-Rex Hobby carries Gundam Markers, Tamiya Panel Line Accent, tools, and everything you need for panel lining alongside our full range of Gunpla kits. As a Bandai Recommended Store, we stock authentic supplies for every skill level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to panel line Gunpla?

Fine-tip Gundam Markers (GM01 black, GM02 gray) are the easiest. Just trace along the panel lines and erase mistakes. For slightly better results with almost the same ease, try pour-type Gundam Markers — touch the tip to the line and the ink flows automatically.

Can you panel line without any special tools?

Technically yes — a mechanical pencil (0.3mm) can work in a pinch for light-colored parts. But a $4 Gundam Marker gives dramatically better results and is worth the small investment.

Should I panel line before or after applying stickers?

Panel line before applying stickers or decals. The ink can bleed under sticker edges and create messy results.

How long does panel lining take?

An HG kit takes about 10–20 minutes. An MG kit takes 30–60 minutes. The process is relaxing and meditative — many builders consider it the most enjoyable part of finishing a kit.