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First time painting a model

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  • Member since
    February 2014
First time painting a model
Posted by im2fst4u on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 10:29 PM

Okay guys I just got this kit:


http://www.amiami.com/top/detail/detail?gcode=TOY-RBT-3522&page=top%2Fsearch%2Flist%3Fs_keywords%3DZoids%24pagemax%3D30%24getcnt%3D0%24pagecnt%3D1

And I want to paint it, Re-color the red parts to an orange, and do the panel wash technique on the panel lines afterwards. Plus I'll do some painting with silver and gold to bring out some of the metal parts like the hydraulics.

So instead of getting an airbrush for doing one model I got a can of enamel spray paint (Testors orange) and I have small jars of Testors enamel for the other colors. I figured I'd go Enamel so I can use acrylic if I have to.   (Followed the chart here:http://cs.finescale.com/fsm/tools_techniques_and_reference_materials/f/18/t/140092.aspx)

Now here is my problem; I cut some plastic from the runners just to test the spray paint on and I ran into a problem. The paint doesn't stick, it is easily scratched off. I am not sure of what plastic the model is made of, I suspect ABS but I don't know.

So I need instruction on how to paint properly. I am a rookie at best. I can handle myself just fine with a brush but not spray. So tips on spraying techniques, paint attributes, thinning/cleaning, etc. would be great. I was wondering if part of the problem is that I need to treat the plastic first to take the paint, just a thought. But I'll let the experts tell me what's up.

  • Member since
    January 2014
Posted by sonofajugpilot on Thursday, February 20, 2014 9:56 AM

I just tried giving you a detailed explanation but my computer just dumped it all!

Basically you want to try to wash the parts in a warm, soapy water - mild dish soap will do. After the parts have dried, try the paint again. Also, using a primer before painting will help the paint adhere better. Regardless of whether it's resin or plastic, the parts need to be treated before painting. If you handle the plastic after washing, wipe it down with some Isopropyl Alcohol, let dry then paint.

I hope this helps. Anybody else with ideas?

  • Member since
    November 2009
  • From: SW Virginia
Posted by Gamera on Thursday, February 20, 2014 10:20 AM

sonofajugpilot

I just tried giving you a detailed explanation but my computer just dumped it all!

Basically you want to try to wash the parts in a warm, soapy water - mild dish soap will do. After the parts have dried, try the paint again. Also, using a primer before painting will help the paint adhere better. Regardless of whether it's resin or plastic, the parts need to be treated before painting. If you handle the plastic after washing, wipe it down with some Isopropyl Alcohol, let dry then paint.

I hope this helps. Anybody else with ideas?

Good advice here, washing the model is always a good idea. And a primer coat can help the paint to stick though I generally don't use one myself. 

This should do the trick if you're using the hard type plastic, if it's the soft rubbery stuff this might not work though from looking at the link I can't imagine it would be the soft material. 

"I dream in fire but work in clay." -Arthur Machen

 

  • Member since
    February 2014
Posted by im2fst4u on Thursday, February 20, 2014 10:52 PM

Okay guys, cool. it's definitely hard plastic. But what kinda primer should I use? and will a primer and paint soften the panel lines on the piece? And of course will I be able to paint with a brush overtop of these painted parts in a different color?

And just to understand, what is the rubbing alchohol for? getting grease off the piece from my fingers?

And I was planning on doing panel lines with the advanced technique shown later in this video:

www.youtube.com/watch

The only reason I want to do the panel wash technique is because I can't seem to find any fine tip markers here in Canada like he shows. Anyone got some other options to suggest?

  • Member since
    January 2014
Posted by sonofajugpilot on Saturday, February 22, 2014 7:00 PM

The primer will allow you to see any defects prior to painting such as seem lines, scratches,etc. I use Tamiya paints so Tamiya primer goes on my models. If read of modelers using auto primer out of a spray can but I'm personally not familiar with brands. The use of primer is a choice, really. It just allows better paint adheshion. If you do choose to use a primer (Testors, Mr. Surfacer, Tamiya, etc) you can paint over it once dry. Go ahead and use different colors and yes, a paint brush is allowable just allow the previous paint to dry a day or so before continuing.

As for the rubbing alcohol - yes, it is to help remove finger oils on the parts. Especially after you've spent the time washing them under warm, soapy water.

I havent watched the video you liked but I can recommend a product called The Detailer - Ready To Use Washes. They come in different shades of grey and browns and are great for panel lines. Check them out at www.the detailer.net. I use this stuff and it's really nice.

  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Huntington, WV
Posted by Kugai on Saturday, March 1, 2014 9:31 PM

Primer is definitely a good idea.  I tend to use Tamiya because some other types aren't as effective with all likely kit materials ( styrene, ABS, or vinyl ).

http://i712.photobucket.com/albums/ww122/randysmodels/No%20After%20Market%20Build%20Group/Group%20Badge/GBbadge2.jpghttp://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y211/razordws/GB%20Badges/WMIIIGBsmall.jpg

  • Member since
    April 2010
  • From: San Diego, CA, USA
Posted by Gerry on Sunday, March 2, 2014 10:01 AM

I use Model Master paints but ALWAYS Tamiya primer. It's the smoothest & best. Not cheep but well worth it.

Gerry ...Young at Heart - Other parts slightly older.

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