I’m new to this forum, so I’m hoping to get some well-needed advice. I’m about to start on Special Hobby’s 1/32 version of the X-15A2, but I first want to map out how I’m going to paint it, finish it, etc.
This will be the first kit I’ve built where I’ll be using wash for panel lines and Tamiya’s weathering master (yes, I’m new at this…or new at doing it right!). Based on hours of searching the web and gleaning advice from other builders, I’ve come up with the following general sequence (excluding washing parts, priming, putty, and sanding):
Tamiya Flat Black (rattle can) and either Gunship or Gunmetal gray for canopy and some panels
Future or clear coat gloss for wash application (next step)
Wash panel lines (dark gray) including application and removal of excess
Tamiya Weathering Master for worn/faded look on panels and exhaust area
Future or clear coat gloss (to seal weathering and for decal application)
Decal application (with set and micro sol)
Weathering over decals (just some of them that were worn during flight)8
Final clear coat gloss.
This seems like so many layers, and I’m concerned about losing fine details in the process. Also, I’ve heard pros and cons about using Future (especially since it’s rumored that they changed formulas).
I suggest you put the decals on before you do any washes or weathering. That’s how most people do it. That way the decals get the same weathering as the rest of the aircraft. So you end up with
primer/base color coat;
clear gloss;
decals;
clear gloss;
wash(es) and weathering;
final clear coat (usually flat)
Apply the clear gloss in very fine coats and the detail won’t be obscured. This is the tough part for me because I have trouble seeing the clear paint as I spray it on. I’ve never tried future as a gloss coat, so I can’t speak to that. I use Alclad II or Tamiya gloss coats.
I would get aquainted with the Techniques and the Painting and Airbrushing forums. These are down near the end of the list, but washes and other weathering techniques, and their relationship to painting, are frequent threads on these forums, and I think you would benefit from looking at recent or current threads on the topic.
If you are going to end up with a gloss finish, and you are worried about paint build-up, why not paint it gloss black in the first place? That would eliminate several layers.
Thanks for your advice. My only concern about putting on decals before washes and weathering is that they might rub off when I’m wiping off the excess wash after it dries. Is there a way to secure them to avoid this?
I guess I’ve always had better finishes using flat and then clear coat, but I should try gloss black to start and see what happens (on a test piece). Thanks!