How to Paint Your Model Like a Pro

So you have built a beautiful model, meticulously gluing tiny plastic pieces together, hunching over at your table for hours. Now it is time to put the finishing touch on your masterpiece, and of course you want it to mirror the work you have done in the construction phase. I have compiled a few tips to help you get started.

The most important thing to remember when painting your model is this: take your time! You have spent all that time painstakingly constructing your model, and you owe it to yourself to make the paint job every bit as impressive as the model. Rushing and ruining the paint job, no matter how fantastic the model is, will ruin the whole project.

That said, there are a few things to know that will be helpful for the amateur model painter. The easiest project improving tip I can offer, other than being patient, is to be sure that you know what you are doing when selecting a brush. When selecting a brush for the job at hand, keep in mind that small brush heads are best suited for detailing, while thick heads should be used for covering large sections of the model. It is also crucial for a painter to realize that the smaller the brush, the more it will be affected by the movement of your hand: a small hand quake can lead to a very unsightly line on your otherwise artful model. Again, take your time, breathe deep, and focus!

If your model is too large to use a brush for every part, consider experimenting spray paint. Make sure that the paint in question will stick to the material your model is made of before going crazy! Most models are made from plastic, a material that spray paint will adhere to. To use spray paint like a pro, simply apply masking tape to areas you do not want painted and start spraying. The can should not be too close to the model, however, as that will create difficult to handle paint runs. Use long sweeps, and try to keep the spray can about a foot away. After you have painted an area, remove the tape, wait until the paint dries, and start again on the next area.

To give your model extra originality, experiment with mixing colors. Obviously, do not try out a self created color on your model- first try it on paper, and then decide whether or not it is acceptable. Paint should be mixed to the consistency of milk- too thick, and you will have clumps- too thin, and you will need to apply multiple coats.

Sometimes though, I know, you just need to start again. If you search the web for model paint removers, you will undoubtedly come up with something. The most simple of these removers is paint thinner. As always, be absolutely sure that what you are putting on your model will not harm it!

If you take your time and follow these tips, you will be painting like a pro in no time!

Sources

Gundam Fusion. Painting Tips. Received on January 8, 2008 from http://home.nyc.rr.com/gundamfusion/painting.html