A Beginner’s Guide to Painting Your First Model Aircraft

Every modeller has a different method of painting his kits. However, no matter how much the technology has improved and different tools appeared making things easy, hand-painted models are still popular. Here you have a beginner’s guide to painting your first model aircraft that will help you choose the right paint, the right tools and the right method to easily get your model aircraft done.

Type of Paint

There are different types of paint on the market, but for model aircraft, most people prefer acrylic paint. Also, every paint contains three major elements, including the color pigment, the pigmented gum, and the solvent that holds everything collectively in the liquid form. Also, there are two main categories of paint, including lacquers and enamels. Enamel goes through a chemical reaction when the solvent evaporates. The lacquers do not have any curing when the solvent evaporates.  Enamels are oil-based, whereas acrylic lacquers are water-based or aqueous.  To thin hobby enamels like Model Masters, Testors, and Humbrol you can use mineral spirits and get a glossy finish. To thin hobby acrylics like PollyScale, Tamiya, Vallejo, and Floquil you can use alcohol or water, and it is easy to clean up. You can try both classes and check which one looks good and choose accordingly.
Applying Paint

Before you start painting your model aircraft, you should know that there are three basic methods that are commonly used by the modelers to apply the paint on their model airplanes. The methods include brush painting, airbrush, and spray cans.  Each method has their own set of disadvantages and advantages....

Source: A Beginner’s Guide to Painting Your First Model Aircraft