How to Buy Model-Painting Materials

Handsome is as handsome does... Every scale model enthusiast wants to top off the latest project with a striking finish. Understanding paints and painting techniques is one of the final steps in building a model with true eye appeal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Airbrush Painter - Modeler's Tools And Supplies
• Breathing Masks
• Extractor Fans
• Fan-shaped Paintbrushes
• Flat Hobby Paintbrushes
• Hobby Paintbrushes
• Acrylic Paints
• Camel-hair Paintbrushes
• Oil-based Paints
• Acrylic Paints
• Latex Gloves
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Internet Access
• Computers
• Internet Explorer
• Spray Paints
• Airbrush Kits
• Sandpaper
• Sandpaper
• Internet Explorer

1. Check your model finish to determine whether water-based acrylic or petroleum-based paints will serve better.

2. Remember that you'll need sandpaper to prepare the surface to be painted.

3. Use rubbing alcohol to remove skin oils and other contaminants from your model. Use alcohol as a cleanser only after testing it on a piece of scrap.

4. Handle your clean, ready-to-paint model only while wearing gloves.

5. Note that beginning modelers most often use aerosol paints. Choose a quality brand.

6. Remember that some model-painting projects will require brushes. Find soft, flexible brushes and keep them clean.

7. Invest in an airbrush painting system when you're ready to take the next step in the modeling hobby.

8. Read, read, read. Check modelers magazines and the Internet to learn what works and what doesn't.

9. Visit your local hobby store.

10. Develop a working relationship with a knowledgeable clerk.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice, practice, practice. No one can pick up an airbrush and apply a good paint job on the first try.
• Join a modelers club. You'll meet more experienced modelers who know the tips and tricks of painting.
• Do some research on the Internet and accumulate literature on painting.
• Filtered masks and exhaust fans are a must when applying paint with an airbrush.
• Paint is flammable. Do your painting where there are no pilot lights or open flames.
• Keep a positive outlook. Painting is a skill and, like any skill, improves as you develop it.