Thank you for visiting to learn the modeling tip of the month. Be sure to check back to learn more about tips that are directly from Bob himself from the techniques that he uses while building models.
Preparing your model body for painting
Step 1:Once you have your model body and/or parts that you will be painting you can start trimming off any flash that is still on the body and/or parts that you are painting (flash is any undesirable small pieces of plastic, resin, etc.). Make sure to take off all of the parting line of the body and parts.
Step 2: Wash your body and/or parts that you are painting. Fill a sink, small tub, or whatever you have available, with warm water. Then add a mild dish soap to the warm water. Start the washing process, washing the body and/or parts very thoroughly in the warm water. Be sure to let the parts dry thoroughly before moving onto the next step.
Step 3: The next step is sanding. I use wet-n-dry sandpaper with a 2000 grit. Depending on the condition of the body and/or parts you are painting, you can start with a 600 grit sand paper and work your way to the 2000 grit sandpaper. Sand the body and/or parts until they have a haze on them and are smooth to the touch. Be sure not to sand off any details like handles, body trim, or any defining marks. Of course do make sure that you sand entire parting line off of the body.
Step 4: Now you are ready to prime the body and/or parts. First spray the body and/or parts with primer. Gray sandable car primer works best for me. After the primer has dried you will be able to see any high or low spots and rough areas. I then use a red automotive spot putty. It works great and dries really fast. Then you will be able to add your final coat of primer. If all looks smooth and is nice and smooth to the touch you are ready to paint your undercoat (if required) and then your final paint color.
I hope that my tip will help you and your model building. I enjoy sharing my ideas with other model builders. I have had success in building models from tips that that have been shared with me. I have had success at many model shows including: The Arizona State Fair, and the modeling club which I belong to "Moonlight Modelers Club." I also have had success at the "Copperstate Model Car Competition." It is a large and very competitive show sponsored by the Moonlight Modelers Club. Competing and sharing ideas at shows has been really helpful to me.
If you have any constructive ideas and/or any questions about this section or any of the products, feel free to e-mail me at: bobsboardsaz@yahoo.com
