how to custom paint a model

An appealing paint job can provide the special touch that makes your car, ship or airplane model a winner. Proper painting technique comes from practice rather than talent.

Difficulty:

 

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Internet Access
• Computers
• Toothbrushes
• Artist's Brushes
• Scale Auto Enthusiast Subscription
• Modeler's Tools And Supplies
• Airbrush Kits
• Model Aviation Subscription

1. • 1
     Do your research if you're building a replica.
   • 2
     Remember, every era has incorporated its own style. A replica of a Model T painted pink would not be an accurate model of the original car.
   • 3
     Check Internet sources for pictures of WW II aircraft, current and historic racing cars, and assorted ships.
   • 4
     Plan your paint scheme if you're crafting your own design. If you want to design your own conception of a muscle car, for example, you should sketch out the design first.
   • 5
     Get active in a modeler's club and learn hands-on tips from more experienced modelers.
   • 6
     Ask for tips and check out literature at your local hobby store.
   • 7
     Work on a clean surface.
   • 8
     Prepare your model parts properly, trimming excess material and sanding ragged edges.
   • 9
     Clean your model. Use rubbing alcohol as a cleaner and then let the model dry thoroughly.
   • 10
     Remember, aerosol spray paints are good, but you may want to invest in an airbrush system as you grow in the hobby.
   • 11
     Construct a simple paint stand from scrap material.
   • 12
     Put the model or model part on a paint stand.
   • 13
     Use multiple coats rather than a single, thick coat.
   • 14
     Start spraying off the model, sweep across it with a steady stroke, and then stop spraying off the model.
   • 15
     Bright, shiny finishes can be achieved by painting the desired color, letting the model dry, lightly sanding with 1200-grit sandpaper until the finish dulls, spraying with a clear coat, lightly sanding again and then finishing with a buffing compound.
   • 16
     Complete detail work as necessary with fine-tipped artist brushes.

Tips & Warnings

• Some modelers claim better results by thinning enamels with lacquer thinner rather than mineral spirits. You must spray a lacquer-based primer. Usually any automotive sandable primer works.
• Paint in a ventilated area and wear a painter's mask.
• Some models, like radio-controlled cars, have the finish painted on the inside of a clear plastic body.
• Many experienced modelers suggest using primers when painting with acrylics.

how to paint two tone on plastic models

Most plastic model cars have one color exterior paint jobs. However, with some models, such as the replica Chevrolet Bel Air, two-tone paint jobs are needed. Creating a two-toned exterior on a plastic model car is not difficult. With just a few tools, a model car can get a custom and unique look. When the painting is completed, the car can be proudly displayed on any shelf.

Difficulty:

 

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• Paintbrush
• Pencil
• Masking tape

1. • 1
     Paint the entire body of the car using the first paint color choice and a paintbrush. Apply a generous amount of paint to the paintbrush and paint a first layer to the body. Let the paint dry for 24 hours.
   • 2
     Apply a second layer of paint to the entire body. This ensures that all areas have been covered by the first color. Let the second coat dry for 24 hours.
   • 3
     Mark off the area on the car where the two colors will meet using a pencil. This depends on the instructions or personal preference. For example, the upper half of the car might get painted a second color, so mark off the halfway point on the car's body.
   • 4
     Tape the color separation line using the masking tape. Press the tape firmly against the car so that the paint will not run below the tapeline.
   • 5
     Dab the paintbrush into the second paint color. Slowly paint around the masking tape and continue to paint the remainder of the section with the desired color. Only one coat of paint is needed for the second color.
   • 6
     Remove the masking tape before the paint dries from the second color, otherwise the tape may crack the dry paint off of the car body causing an uneven color line. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.