useing airbrushes to paint models?

Question

I just bought a P-61 Black widow 1:48 scale Revell plastic model, I noticed that the base color for all of the parts is a gloss black, im wondering, would I go ahead and re-spray the whole model black, or just leave it be and not re-spray the black parts because the models base color already is black?

I have also been advised that it's good to soak the parts in mild detergent water, for better painting. I am wondering if any other model builders out there do this and I am wondering for how long they soak the parts, and how much detergent they use to make the mix.

Answer 1

A GREAT Model !! Enjoy building it !!

I ALWAYS give my plastic model parts a wash-rinse in dish detergent... I usually just half fill the sink with water and add about 1/2 teaspoon... I soak for 15 minutes or so... and rinse and dry on paper towels.

I WOULD paint the model in matte black... it will look MUCH better !! I know, I've built that model twice over the last 25 years.

Answer 2

Here are three of the airbrushing preparation tips that are part of a scale modeling tutorial at my website.

Important--cut several sheets of styrene into one half by one inch pieces. Prepare them the way you will your models for painting (wash with mild detergent, sand and prime) to use as test pieces.

Shoot a series of these test pieces, changing one variable of your painting process at a time. (Try thinner paint ratios, change distance from the part, vary the airbush pressure, change needle size etc.)

Just before you actually paint the model, paint a few test pieces to get an idea of how long it will take to dry and become compatible with top coats. If your model provides you with an inside surface that won't show, try a small area.