To prime or not to prime...

[frankycee]

So guys, I'm coming back into the hobby with alot less time on my hands (and more kids) than before.

 

I'm pretty sure I didnt always prime my kits before, and I had decent results...

 

Who primes or doesnt prime their kits?

[phantom]

For a bare metal finish, yes.

Overall white , yes

 

Everything else. Not too often.

[speedlimit]

Always. Paint had more bite and check for imperfection.

[thegoodsgt]

If in doubt, prime. It's never a bad thing.

 

Steven Brown

Scale Model Soup

 

[Lancer512]

If you are using water based acrylics, primer is definately needed. Otherwise the paint will be too fragile.

The primer will also reveal flaws in the surface, such as sanding scartches or imperfections. They can be rectified and checked again before you put on the paint coat.

 

[dnl42]

As you can see, it depends on the paint, so perhaps tell us what paint you use. 

 

I airbrush thinned Mr Surfacer to ensure a good surface as it exposes flaws yet covers fine surface scratches. I airbrush rather than use a rattle-can primer to maintain fine detail. In addition, I apply a white undercoat for white and yellow.