One thing you didn't mention. Do you have gas heat or electric? If it's gas, NO spray painting inside. I used to live in an apartment. Take it outside just long enough to paint it. Not on a windy day,and not by anyone's car. I prefer Tamiya paints more and more over Testot's. Fast drying,and water cleanup. It sounds like you're new at this. brush painting takes practice. The right brush with the right paint (thinned if needed) makes all the difference. Yes,spray paint works best on the bigger areas. Good luck.