Green Horn Probs!

Some parts are best painted after assembly. Such as the block. That way you can sand and file the seams. Usually bottle paints need no thinning. You can start your build any where. But read and read and read instructions. Some parts go on in final assembly. Primer is an option. Some do some don't. Too many layers of paint and primer make it look thick. Ecspecially edges. If you are brushing get good brushes. And the right cleaner/thinner for paints used. Also for clear parts get what they call a white glue. Not elmers. And welcome to the hobby. Build it your way. Do not worry what others think of your build, it only has to make you happy. If you get frustrated step back , take a breath, come back later. Good luck and happy modeling.

If you have more questions, please ask as there is a LOT of building talent on this forum and also many who would be glad to help.

original_40

Hey guys,

Starting on my very FIRST kit and come bearing TONS of questions! Ive read many articles and watched many videos and its been a little overwhelming for me about where to start. I wanted to start by painting the engine but after putting together the engine block, I realized...hmmm..I probably should have painted the pieces while they were still on the sprue (first rookie mistake). I'm very anxious and nervous about this new hobby. Forgive me. My main questions are, "Should the pieces be primed before painting?" (I'm Brush Painting btw). I'm testing acrylic colors and enamel colors, "Should i be thinning the paints before I start painting? Is that more of a rule of thumb or just preference?". Sorry if this comes off elementary, alot of pre-information Ive received has kind of left me overwhelmed and undecided. Suggestions would be greatly appreciated! thnx

 

Always remove the parts before painting. Otherwise, you'll have to sand and touch up the paint after you remove the parts. It's also impossible to remove the mold lines from the parts while they're on the tree. So, you made no mistake.

Primer makes all the difference in the world when it comes time to paint whether you're spraying or brushing it on. I used to only primer the body on a model. Now, I primer every single part. I was always frustrated with how my engines and chassis' would look when I painted them. It didn't matter if I sprayed them or brush painted them. The paint would always be thin on the raised details and sharp corners etc. unless I used a flat paint. One day, I decided to try primering an engine before painting it. When I spray painted it, I was very pleased with how well the paint covered with just one coat of paint. I've primered everything since.

I like the acrylic paints best for brush painting. Easy clean up and covers better. They also don't show brush marks as much as enamels do. I don't thin acrylics. But, when I'm brushing them on, I dip my brush in water before loading it with paint. For me, it makes the paint flow better onto the parts and almost eliminates brush marks. You can do the same with enamels. But, with thinner instead of water.

Thank you for your input. Much appreciated. Is there a brush on primer that you might suggest? spray on primer?. I intented to use the spray can method to paint the body. But right now I want to focus on the engine. 

Pretty much any flat paint can be a primer. Most modelers prefer Duplicolor or Tamiya gray. For a cheaper alternative, I use Krylon flat grey.