As for paintwork, given a small number of custom kits available, the lack of uniqueness between models can be overcome by appropriately personalizing a plain kit to create a sought-after piece of originality. So enthusiasts can achieve professional results with as little frustration as possible.
With the proper preparation, a little patience, and attention to detail, hobbyists of all skill levels can enjoy a fun, rewarding process and achieve a professional-looking finish.
Gathering Materials
By choosing high-quality materials, you can create a dip-and-paint that yields new paint surfaces that look good and last a long time, especially for custom paint-by-number projects. Before you begin, make sure you have all your supplies organized and your workspace clean. Paints, brushes, primer, masking tape, sandpaper, and protective gloves are some essentials.
Preparing the Surface
The first step is to scrub each component of your kit up with some mild soap and water. This step removes any dust, grease, or leftover materials that might prevent the paint from bonding. To avoid complications during the application, dry the pieces thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Sanding and Smoothing
You will want to sand all surfaces lightly (focusing on any rough spots or mold lines) with fine-grit sandpaper. Since paint won’t adhere properly to a rough surface, it’s essential to sand the surface to achieve a sleek, clean appearance. Keep the parts free of sanding dust with a soft brush or compressed air.
Applying Primer
A primer is a light coat that helps paint adhere and reveals any problems that need to be resolved. Apply a spray primer with an even coat, keeping a constant distance from the spray can. Let the primer dry thoroughly before you move on and touch it.
Planning the Color Scheme
Once the model is complete, it can help you choose an aesthetically pleasing color palette. Plan each color for the kit design by sketching. Alternatively, you can use digital tools. All of this preparation helps avoid mistakes and creates a uniform look.
Masking for Precision
Use tape to mask off areas that shouldn’t be painted or need sharp color boundaries. Once you have the straight tape lines, press down well on the tape so the paint does not seep under it. Avoid pulling off any painted areas by gently pulling the tape off around existing thin coats of paint.
Painting the Base Coat
Start with a base coat and select a neutral shade if the kit requires multiple colors. Use thin, even layers instead of thick applications to avoid drips. Let each coat dry thoroughly before adding another to achieve a smooth, consistent finish.
Detailing and Layering Colors
Once the base coat is dry, apply secondary colors and details. Rounds perform well for smaller areas and for crisp lines. Pause between colors to give layers a little time to set, which will help avoid unwanted mixing.
Shading and Highlighting
Add some realistic shading and highlights where appropriate. Shades lighter than base tones can be used to highlight high points, and shades darker to fill recesses. This technique adds depth and dimensionality to the kit, giving it a truly eye-catching look.
Correcting Mistakes
You might run into some mistakes, but with experience, they are generally repairable. Be sure to use a light solvent or light sandpaper to remove the errors without damaging the original surface. Reapply primer and paint to areas that require correction, and feather the blend between the two.
Applying Decals and Markings
After painting, add decals or make your own markings to replicate the model. We recommend using tweezers for precise placement and a soft cloth to remove air bubbles. Topcoat the decals to protect them from usage.
Finishing Touches and Sealing
Add a protective topcoat to protect the painted kit. Go with glossy, satin, or matte for the desired finish. Allow the coat to dry thoroughly so the paint does not come off when handling or displaying it.
Cleaning Up
When done using brushes and tools, clean them properly (with water or an appropriate cleaner). Keep paints for subsequent projects in a cool and dry place. Maintaining a clean workspace not only protects the freshly painted kit from damage but also ensures supplies are available for future projects.
Displaying the Finished Model
Showcase the completed set in a dust-free showcase cabinet or on a shelf. Put it somewhere; it can show off all your hard work and details. Relish the fulfillment of turning a basic kit into a customized display.
Conclusion
Painting a custom kit isn’t about being perfect; it’s about following the right steps. With good materials, proper preparation, and a bit of patience, anyone can achieve a clean, professional-looking result.
Every step matters, from getting the surface ready to sealing the final coat. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t worry about small mistakes. By the end, you’ll have a finished kit you can feel proud to show off.