 | Mark is a local expert in the field of modeling. His models are on display at BoyKid Hobbies in Claremont, NH. Come on in and spend as much time as you like admiring them. Every so often, Mark will provide us with some tips and tricks of the trade. I like to post those tips here (with his permission, of course) for other modelers to take advantage of. |
If you have any questions regarding supplies that may be mentioned here, please do not hesitate to contact me. I may even have what you are looking for, right in the store!
Index
 Model Paints
 Acrylics
 Safety with Acrylics
Acrylics Do’s and Don’ts Questions
Enamels (to be continued)
Model Paints
There are two basic kinds of paint for models; acrylic and enamel.
Acrylics
Acrylics are formulated differently than enamels. Many acrylics can be thinned or cleaned with water, but some require special thinners or cleaners (they’ll say so on the label). Even though paint may say “pre-thinned”, you may still want to add a thinner to get the paint to the consistency that works best for you. Start with small amounts; you can always add more as needed.
Safety with Acrylics
Water-based acrylic paints are generally safer than solvent-based enamels, but they still require precautions. Some acrylic paints (and their thinners) contain alcohol, ammonia, and other agents that can irritate your throat and lungs if inhaled.
Always have plenty of ventilation, and if using an airbrush or spray can, wearing a respirator is a good idea. If you or others can smell paint after you are done spraying, your ventilation isn’t adequate. Some acrylics are combustible and should not be used around open flame. Check the label.
Acrylics Do’s and Don’ts
Do…
Stir paint thoroughly before using
Thin with the product’s recommended thinner (it isn’t always water)
Clean your airbrush or bushes completely after each use
Don’t…
Mask with standard household masking tape (try vinyl tape or Model Master masking tape)
Spray your second color until the first one is dry (wait 4-12 hours)
Store thinned paint
Questions
There are many types of paint; acrylics, gloss, flat, natural-metal, enamels, and lacquer to name a few. If you have any questions on painting or model building, stop by BoyKid Hobbies, or email, and I will do my best to get back to you with an answer. |