Best way to fix rough paint on model?

[VA-115EFR]

Hey guys,

I'm new to airbrushing, and just painted my 1/48 A-6 Intruder using Model Master paint and Lacquer thinner. I was very pleased with the results, except noticing that the finish has a rough "dusty" feel to it. Is there any way I can possibly wet sand the model, and how fine of sandpaper should I go? Any recommendations to better painting?

Thanks for any help and advice.

Jason

[zeus60]

I have not tried this yet, since I just read about it, but Jon Bius at agapemodels.com suggested using a coffee filter.

Here is the article.

Stacey

[Fly-n-hi]

You could also cut up an old cotton T-shirt and buff the paint with that.

[vince14]

Use 1200 Grit Wet'n'Dry and lightly buff the model - it won't take long to smooth out the finish. Just don't rub too hard as you'll wear through the paint in an alarmingly fast time.

Vince

[SLAYER]

wet sand with 1200-1500 paper and lightly rub the model

[balls47]

I'll try and answer your airbrushing question. Your rough and dusty finish is probably being caused because the paint is drying before it gets to the model. In your case, it's probably caused by two reasons. First, lacquer thinner dries a lot quicker than regular paint thinner. Second, your pressure may be too high, causing the paint to dry too quickly. I also use lacquer thinner at times to thin enamels. I turn down the pressure and get in a little closer. Good Luck.

[Netz]

Just wipe it deown with a paper towel, it will be abrasive enough.

Curt

[toadwbg]

Coat of Future brushed on might take care of it too. Try it on a test piece like the horizontal stabs.

[compressorman]

I agree on the lacquer thinner drying the paint in the air. I would try using a 'cooler' thinner and doing some test painting and see how it turns out. You also may try getting a little closer, you might be surprised how close to the model you can paint with an airbrush using a low pressure.

[NavyPhantoms]

How low of a pressure setting would you recommend when spraying enamels or acrylics?

[zeus60]

Start at about 15 psi and then play around.

You might also need to thin your paint a bit more. You'd be surprised how much you can thin modern model paint and still get a good finish. You can thin Model Master enamel 50:50, possibly more.

Stacey

[VA-115EFR]

Thanks for the advice guys!!! Yeah, my main problem is the cheap a/c only allows me to drop the PSI to about 20-25. Going to see if I can get a decent regulator for it this weekend. I love the results of the lacquer thinner, but as Balls pointed out, the PSI is too high, and have been shy about how close I get to the model. I'll Try with the T-shirt method first, and then the 1200 wet sand.

Thanks again all! :D

[compressorman]

When I used to paint motorcycle tanks I would go down as low as 8 psi. Now this was usin House of Kolor automotive paint and it was very, very thin. But as someone posted above, you can get model paints down to a pretty thin vis. and still get pretty good results.

Good decision on the regulator, dont even try to airbrush without one. Its kind of like driving a car without a gas pedal :)

Edited August 13, 2013 by compressorman

[viper730]

At times I like to spray with Lacquer. MM is petty thick I say at least 50/50 thinning ratio and then spray at 12-15psi. Watch for the vortex effect around stabilizer & wing roots or anywhere vertical and horizontal meet up...what I like to do is start with them and work out to the end of that surface...

[balls47]

How low of a pressure setting would you recommend when spraying enamels or acrylics?

Yessir, There is no set answer for this one. There are so many variables involved in airbrushing, including: types & brands of airbrush, paint, thinner, kit. Also involved are humidity, air pressure, air source, etc. etc., etc. The most important factor involved is YOU. You have to decide what works for you as far as all of the variables involved. The most important thing is to PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!! Start practicing on pop cans, anything plastic, etc. Stay away from anything that absorbs paint, such as newspaper, cardboard, etc. As far as kits, start out with something inexpensive. There's a difference between inexpensive and cheap. It's fun, and you'll be painting up great looking models in no time. Good Luck and don't forget to practice.