I paint them when they go down, but have to go over them several times. The acrylic I'm using (Tamiya X-19) does not adhere well. The railings and stairs have one coat. I will go back with an 000 brush several times as I see a flaw. Yes it is tedious, but so is applying a rust streek to a porthole or door with the same brush.
Aaa the trials of 1/350 ships. Just wait till the rigging starts.
Thanks so much for following Mike!