Masking and Priming Questions

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

Hi Everyone! I’m new to model building and I’ve found this to be a great site - thanks for all your knowledge and help in advance…

2 Questions…

  1. When priming and painting fuselage, how do people go about masking the cockpit and other already painted subassemblies to avoid splatter in the wrong places? I’ve heard of damp tissue packed inside, or masking tape…

  2. Do all small parts need to be primed before painting? (Acrylic)

Thanks!

2

I was able to get a lot of information from searching in the forum, but if anyone has any other creative means, I would certainly appreciate the advice.

Thanks!

3

First off, welcome to the forums Cosmo![#welcome]

In answer to your first question, I use exactly the methods you mention for masking: tape and/or damp tissue. Which I use depends on the situation; just what seems to work best at the time. The reason I (and others) use damp tissue is to prevent the fibers from coming loose from the tissue and making a mess. You also don’t want the tissue soaking wet, so that it’s dripping water. I usually use a toothpick to gently poke or move around the tissue until it looks like everything is covered or protected that needs to be.

Some people use other methods, such as foam placed in the opening, to prevent overspray.

I rarely use acrylics, so will let others dive into that foray!

HTH,

Mark