Model Airbrushing

[patrickstar]

I have just started to get back into model kit making as a hobby. One question I Would like to ask is when making a model kit, i.e. an aircraft, is it best to airbrush paint the main body and wings prior to assembly or when most of the parts are assembled? I presume the latter but would like to seek other opinions. Thank you.

[Peaspeculiars]

Morning patrickstar, If you would never nee to take the model apart again (ie, if it's not a huge plane the you would need to take the wings off to fit in the car) I'd say yes - go for the 2nd option.
By airbrushing when almost complete, you wouldn't have to worry about the paint affecting the 'fit' of the joining parts and it would have a cleaner finish.
Hope you enjoy re-kindling your hobby again (my OH loves fiddling with planes and trains)(don't ask - but it keeps him quiet)
All the best :-)

[mikey4444]

Patrick.....I used to make Airfix models as a boy in the 60's and then again about 10 years. I always sprayed the entire model, whatever it is, with an aerosol primer, in a neutral grey colour, AFTER ASSEMBLY ! It provides the best base for the top coats, as they will "sit" better on the primer, then on the plastic. It also covers up any stray glue, which isn't always the best base for paint.

Another thing to bear in mind. Fill in all the gaps with a filler before using the primer. The difference that it will make to the finished article is well worth the effort.

If you need any more info,please ask !

[mikey4444]

I forgot to add....use some very fine sandpaper, after construction....again it helps to make the best possible finish. Use some garnet paper, which is the finest available.

[patrickstar]

Thank you both. Hobby has restarted after a break of 30+ years in order that I can try and switch off and relax. I am starting small with a 1/48 Spitfire before prgressing on to bigger and better things. I will assemble to the point where I can spray. Great tip about the grey primer and will do that, thank you. This morning is going to be spent learning how to use my new airbrush before letting my myself loose on the model!

[Peaspeculiars]

Hope you have fun with it Patrick - Top tip: try not to sneeze when airbrushing! :-)

[Nibble]

Note to self :- Don't presume the actual content of the question.

Enjoy your "new"hobby, but read the manual for the airbrush, and use a bit of cardboard to perfect your technique.

[patrickstar]

Thanks Nibble. Have an old cardboard box so will use that. Could be an interestin morning! :-)

[jno]

lol - like Nibble, I thought this was going to be about making Naomi Campbell look skinnier on a magazine cover!

[Khandro]

mikey; 000 grade steel wool also as it's easier to hold a small ball which enters corners better, dust off with soft brush and magnet.

[patrickstar]

Thank you Khandro. Really good to get all the tips. I have test tried the airbrush and have even spray painted the inner part of the aircraft to get a feel of the airbrush and gauge then look etc. Very happy with the results so will crack on at a pace now. Once again thanks to all.

[Answerprancer]

I have only ever airbrushed planes assembled if (for example) it's camo-stripes that need to continue over the fuselage. I carefully mask off bits like the cockpit canopy though.

[mikey4444]

100% correct Khandro.....I was saving that for Tips volume 6, the advanced section !

[patrickstar]

Fine wire wool n mini magnet bought, and model filler and model masking tape too. Sure it wasn't like this when I was younger! Enjoying every minutes though.

[shoota]

Don't forget to paint the inside of the fuselage that will be visible through the windows before assembly - also the pilot and his seat.