Guides
How to Paint a Gypsum Figurine at Home
Jay Karn · 3 October 2026 · 3 min read
Painting a gypsum figurine is very easy. You don't need to know drawing. The shape is already made for you. You only have to fill in the colours.
Gypsum is also called POP, or plaster of Paris. It is a white material that can be set into any shape. Our gypsum painting kits come with a ready POP figurine, colours and a brush.
In this guide, I will show you how to paint your figurine, one step at a time.
What you need
- The gypsum figurine from your kit
- The colours and brush from your kit. The colours are tempera colours, a type of water-based paint.
- Old newspaper, to keep your table clean
- A small cup of water, to wash the brush
- A tissue or an old cloth, to wipe the brush
- An old plate or lid, to mix colours on
How to paint your figurine, step by step
- 1
Get your table ready
Spread the newspaper on the table. Keep the cup of water and the tissue close to you. Wash and dry your hands before you touch the figurine.
- 2
Choose your colours
Look at your figurine and decide which colour goes where. Don't use too many colours the first time. 3 or 4 colours are enough.
- 3
Paint the big parts first
Start with the biggest parts, like the body. Use light colours first, like yellow or white. Dark colours can go on top of light ones later. But light colours will not cover dark ones.
- 4
Wait before you paint the next part
Let one colour dry before you paint right next to it. If both colours are wet, they will mix and look messy. Wash your brush in water every time you change the colour.
- 5
Paint a second coat if needed
Can you still see white under the colour? Then paint one more thin coat after the first one dries. Two thin coats look better than one thick coat.
- 6
Paint the small details
Now paint the small parts, like the eyes and the lines. Use only the tip of the brush, with very little paint on it. Go slowly.
- 7
Let it dry fully
Keep it aside until it is fully dry. That's it, your figurine is ready! You can keep it on a shelf or give it to someone as a gift.
Tips to make it look neat
- Take less paint on the brush. Too much paint makes the edges messy.
- Hold the figurine from the bottom. This way you won't touch the wet paint.
- Made a mistake? Don't rub it while it is wet. Let it dry first, then paint over it.
- Turn it around and paint the back and the sides too.
Easy kits to start with
Can kids do gypsum painting?
Yes. Kids of 4 years and above can do it easily. The shape is already made, so even small kids get a nice result on their first try. Small kids may need a little help from an adult. Mostly to make sure the cup of water doesn't fall over!
Grown-ups enjoy it too. It is a nice way to relax and stay away from the phone for a while. A Ganesha idol that you paint yourself also makes a lovely gift for a festival.
If you get stuck anywhere, just message us on WhatsApp. We are happy to help.
Common questions
What is gypsum painting?
Gypsum painting means painting a figurine made of gypsum. Gypsum is also called POP or plaster of Paris. The shape is already made, so you only need to add colours.
How long does the paint take to dry?
The colours in our kits dry in about 20 minutes. A thick coat of paint takes longer to dry.
Can I use my own paints?
Yes. Our kits come with tempera colours, but other water-based paints like acrylic colours also work. Just don't make the paint too watery, or it will soak into the POP and look patchy.
Which age is gypsum painting good for?
It is good for kids of 4 years and above. Small kids may need a little help. Adults enjoy it too.
Want to try it?
Pick a design you like. The kit has everything you need to start painting.
See all gypsum painting kits