Hey Ken. Never would have thought you could use a scouring pad on the surface of the plastic without leaving scratches. I close the door and hope no one is listening when I begin having my conversations with the kit or parts I am working on. I try to do my best when modeling and it doesn't always come easy. I paint on the back porch, also use a cardboard box for a spray booth but paint on top of the box not into it. No fan (might stir up dust or draw dust into the build). I use only Rattle cans for paint. Tamiya is my favorite. I may have a peculiar attitude about modeling but I'm only happy when things turn out right or at least the best I can do. Sorry for all too much gum-flapping. Want you to feel at home and at ease with a great bunch of fellow modelers.