Scale Modelling Tips

Great list of tips for scale modellers!

**1.Mix some warm soapy water with a small amount of vinegar, wash all the model parts. Doing this will help the paint stick to the model better.

**2. Paint the small parts whilst they are still on the model tree or stick them to some blue tack made into a handle. This will help with painting the detail on the small parts.

 

**3. Cut out fragile parts along with the surrounding model tree, then you can neaten the fragile parts with a hobby knife. This can help avoid damaging the parts.

 

**4. Practice assembling the model before you glue it together, to ensure they fit.

 

**5. If you don't have glue with a fine needle tip, try using the end of the paint brush (handle) to apply to avoid spills.

 

**6. Make sure the area you are gluing is free of paint, as the glue will strip the paint and will not bond the plastic correctly.

 

**7. Use clothes pegs to clamp parts together whilst the glue dries.

 

**8. Smooth finish filler or modelling filler to fill any gaps between the model parts. 9. Fine grade sandpaper smooths out joints and moulding seams.

 

**10. Leave any small fragile parts off the exterior of the kit until after painting, this will avoid causing them damage.

 

**11. Use paint conversion charts so you don't have to purchase lots of different brand paints.

 

**12. Mixing your paint with an equal amount of thinners to the consistency of milk to help you avoid getting visible brush streaks.

 

**13. Use a wet palette for acrylic paints** – This will help keep your paints moist longer, preventing them from drying out too quickly, especially during long painting sessions.

 

**14. Test fit parts before priming** – It's always best to test fit parts before you start priming and painting. This will allow you to check for any adjustments or fixes before committing to final finishes.

 

**15. Invest in a good set of tweezers** – Fine tweezers can help you handle and place small parts more precisely without damaging them, especially in cramped areas.

 

**16. Apply primer before painting** – A light coat of primer will help the paint adhere better and give you a more even finish, especially on plastic parts.

 

**17. Use thin layers of paint** – Build up layers of paint gradually rather than trying to cover everything in one thick coat. This helps to avoid visible brush strokes and prevents clogging details.

 

**18. Dry brushing for highlights** – Dry brushing is a great technique for highlighting raised details. Use a small amount of paint on a dry brush, and lightly sweep over the surface to catch the edges and high points.

 

**19. Use a magnifying lens or headset** – For intricate details, a magnifying lens or headset with built-in magnification can help you see finer details better and prevent eye strain during long sessions.

 

**20. Avoid gluing parts that will be hidden** – If certain parts will be hidden once the model is assembled, there’s no need to glue them. This can make painting and future repairs much easier.

 

**21. Keep tools organized** – A tidy workspace with well-organized tools can save you time and effort, reducing the chances of misplacing small parts or tools.

 

**22. Use weathering techniques** – Add depth to your model by using weathering techniques like washes, pigments, and pastels to simulate dirt, rust, or wear.

 

Hope these help enhance your modelling process even further!