So you’re building an unofficial LEGO set and can’t find all the pieces in the colors you need. Maybe you’ve got a uniquely shaped LEGO brick you want to customize, but you’re not sure if it can be painted.
So, can you paint LEGO Bricks?
Yes, you can paint LEGO bricks, but the results will vary depending on the type of paint and method used. Keep in mind that LEGO bricks are colored throughout—not just on the surface—so paint is more likely to wear off with time or use.
But don’t panic. I’ll walk you through which paints work best, how to paint properly, and what to expect when painting LEGO pieces.
Table of Contents
What Kind of Paint Works on LEGO Bricks?
Finding paint that sticks well and matches existing LEGO colors can be tricky. You’ll mostly be looking at acrylic and enamel paints.
-
Acrylic Paint: Thicker and easier to apply. More prone to wear and chipping.
-
Enamel Paint: Sticks better and gives a polished finish. Often thinner and more difficult to apply.
Recommended Paint Brands
Stick to water-based acrylic paints. Recommended brands include:
-
Craft Smart
-
Apple Barrel
-
Lumiere
-
Games Workshop
-
Folk Art
Avoid oil-based paints, as they don’t work well on plastic LEGO bricks.
Color Matches for LEGO Paints
Here are some tried-and-tested paints that match common LEGO colors:
| LEGO Color | Recommended Paint | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Any black paint | Acrylic |
| White | Humbrol - White Matt (#34) | Enamel |
| Yellow | Tamiya XF-3 or Humbrol #69 | Acrylic / Enamel |
| Green | Humbrol - Emerald Green Gloss (#2) | Enamel |
| Blue | Tamiya - Sky Blue (X-14) | Acrylic |
| Orange | Tamiya - Orange (X-6) | Acrylic |
| Red | Humbrol - Scarlet Matt (#60) | Enamel |
| Lime | Humbrol - Pastel Green Matt (#36) | Enamel |
| Tan | Humbrol - Cream Matt (#103) | Enamel |
| Dark Gray | Humbrol - Dark Slate Gray Matt (#224) | Acrylic |
| Light Gray | Humbrol - Light Gray Matt (#64) | Enamel |
How to Paint LEGO Bricks (Step-by-Step)
Follow the steps below to paint your LEGO bricks:
- Choose the right paint (preferably acrylic or enamel)
- Clean and dry your LEGO pieces thoroughly
- Wear a protective mask if using spray paints
- Work in a well-ventilated area, away from flames or sparks
- Lay down a newspaper to protect your workspace
- Shake the spray can well
- Hold the can 6 to 14 inches away from the pieces
- Spray side-to-side, evenly covering the surface
- Let it dry 5–10 minutes between coats
- Flip the brick and repeat on the other side
- Apply 2–3 coats minimum
- Consider applying a clear sealant for durability
Tips & Warnings
-
Use airbrushes for small parts and spray cans for larger areas
-
Always mask off mating surfaces (don’t paint where bricks connect)
-
Avoid painting studs, as paint will scrape off during connections
-
Sanding may be needed to prevent chipping in some areas
-
Acrylic paints are easier to clean, but chip faster
-
Enamel paints can get sticky with certain plastics—use primer
-
Vinyl dye spray paints hold better than regular acrylics
-
Clothing dye can be used to permanently color LEGO bricks without chipping
-
Expect paint to wear off eventually, especially with play or friction
Important: Painting LEGO is for custom display or hobby projects. Painted bricks may not perform well in functioning sets.
Effects of Painting LEGO Bricks
-
Thickness Issues: Paint adds bulk, which can make bricks harder to connect.
-
Scratching & Chipping: Painted bricks may not withstand regular play.
-
Blemishes: Without careful prep, expect brush marks, dust, and uneven coats.
-
Non-uniform Finish: Even with care, painted pieces won’t look like original LEGO bricks.
Final Thoughts
Yes, LEGO bricks can be painted, and it’s a great way to customize your builds—but it requires patience and the right materials. Whether you’re creating MOCs or modifying parts for fun, test your methods and expect some trial and error.
Read Also: How to Fix Peeled LEGO Stickers
