HI-piflo1; I usually do it this way. I paint the hull ,waterline and all. Then I paint any and all verticle surfaces. The deck,if,three piece or less I glue together first,rescribing any lines I might have to.I then paint it and set it aside. I paint any other deck that needs the color I am using.Then I go back and paint any deck areas that need a different color.I paint As much as I can,depending how the ship goes together. Then I assemble all the deckhouses that do not have tiny details. If it has them I install those parts after painting.I then go back,from the main deck up, and paint details that need painting now.I paint all guns before installation.The masts and such are last.The one thing about masts,is,I paint any area between details and such.After all that is done, I have ,A ship that is ready to be touched up and finished.(I use a lot of photoetch!)That is one more thing.Any photoetch that looks like it can,t be put on after a step should be mounted before assembly if possible.Use ALEENS white glue on the p.e. and touch up ,install decals and your ship is done!! I hope this helps you. tankerbuilder