What paint do i use in my scale model? and how do i do it?

Question

I am currently working on a trumpeter scale model. USS North Carolina (1:700 scale). I need ideas on how to paint it since im still a newbie in this hobby. Do i use acrylics and are spray paints ok? do i need to use an airbrush? and any other advice in painting. many thanks

Chris

Answer 1

Okay, since you're a "newbie" I'd really recommend starting with acrylic paints rather than enamels.

Tamiya has a great selection of acrylic paints in both brush and spray formats, including the paints needed for US Naval vessels in WWII.

I WOULD buy the base color and the hull-red in spray-cans... since there is so much smooth area to paint, and brush marks really stand out on the hull.
ALWAYS wash the sprues of parts in a little warm water and dish-soap, then hang to dry... this cleans off any silicon release agent from the molding which messes with paint adhesion.

SPRAY ALL parts with the base grey while still on the sprue if you can... cut the parts, as you need them, with either a very sharp knife or "sprue cutter" and clean up the edges with a fine-grit Emory board.

On ship models, I often build up the guns (5", 40mm, 20mm) and paint them as "sub-assemblies" before putting them ON the ship.

Work with CLEAN hands while building the model (I actually use latex or cotton gloves). Be VERY sparing with your glue (Plastic Cement) because spills or overflow damage your surface.

I'd wait on an airbrush if this is your first model. I built for almost 8 years before I bought my first... of course NOW I have 4 of them !!

GOOD LUCK.

Answer 2

Spray paint is actual ideal for styrene plastic fashions ! I many times use the two Testors or Tamayi paints. the main to getting a great paint interest is to: a) Wash the form with soft dish-cleansing soap and heat water to rid it of finger oils and silicon mildew-launch agent, and then set aside to dry. b) prepare with the spray paint on a scrap of plastic or an previous form... to get a even and mild-weight coat of paint. c) In temps under 70's, heat the spray can in a bathtub of warmth water.... it brings the stress up abit. good success

Answer 3

You can use spray paint and you do not need to use an airbrush. Use an airbrush to make it look nicer. Also, tape or cover the area you don't want to paint.