How to Airbrush Scale Models
Airbrushing your scale models is a faster way to layers smooth coats of paint on them without leaving any brushstrokes. Through airbrushing you can cover large expanses of the model quickly but still maintain the control needed to paint fine details. With the proper airbrushing technique you can achieve clean, precise paint jobs for your scale models that will give them an additional level of realism.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Dishwashing soap
- Lint-free cloth
- Paints
- Paint thinner
- Masking tape
- Air compressor
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-
1
Wash your model with a mixture of dishwashing liquid and warm water. Rinse the soapy residue from the model parts and dry them using a lint-free dry cloth.
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2
Thin the paint to a consistency slightly less than milk, leaving the paint slightly opaque. Thin enamel paints with paint thinner, and thin acrylic based paints with water.
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3
Apply masking tape to the area you will be airbrushing to keep the spray confined to that spot. Use an automotive masking tape or one formulated especially for scale models to prevent a sticky residue from being left behind when the tape is removed.
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4
Pour a black or brown paint to serve as primer paint for your model into the paint reservoir and attach the air hose and paint reservoir to your airbrush.
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5
Apply a layer of primer paint to the model to create a textured surface to which the thinned paint can adhere without running. The dark color adds depth and shadows to your model.
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6
Turn on the air compressor connected to your air hose. Hold the airbrush perpendicular to the model surface 6 inches above the model and slightly over the masking taped edge. Trigger the air and move the airbrush with a steady level movement over the model surface, stopping the flow of paint when you reach slightly over the opposite masked edge.
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7
Place a light coat of paint on the model with each pass. Use multiple passes to build up a layer of paint on the model's surface. Allow the primer layer to dry for two hours.
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8
Change the paint in the reservoir to the final color and apply a coat of it to the model. Apply a second or third coat of paint as needed to develop depth to the painted surface. Allow the paint to dry between each coat.
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9
Remove the masking tape and apply the same process to painting the rest of the model.
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1
Tips & Warnings
For fine details move the airbrush closer to the model's surface and use lighter applications of paint.
For safety's sake, always paint in a well ventilated area.
