The basics...

[team116]

Hey everybody. I'm new here. Getting back into modeling after a long break and I want to get better. Can you all point me to some threads on the basics of modeling such as parts cleaning, painting parts (aerosol or brush), how to make parts square and line up properly? I'm struggling. Lol thanks. 

[MeatMan]

Hey Cody, I just got back into it myself about 2 years ago.  

The Tips, Tricks, and Tutorials section is a good place to start.  There's a recent post "The Secret to Building a Better Model" that has some good info in it.  The search feature on the site is a help as well. 

I also found the site at the link below a very good source.  Start at the menu on the left pane and work your way down.

http://www.modelcartips.com/

[10thumbs]

Hey Cody,  you'll be getting lots of tips coming up, they'll probably be all good too.

Take them, then do a search here for the same kit you're working on now, or that you want to do.  The Work In Progress forum for instance.  This might help you along.  I think you'll be surprised how quick you can get some newer type detailing down and have fun doing it.  I started too again about 2 yrs. ago and things here let me move along quickly to get back into things again.

Welcome to a nice place to be.

Michael

[team116]

I've read all the stickies and searched literally as much as I can think to, but I can't seem to find a detailed thread about how you guys start your kits. I guess it doesn't get discussed much because you all are beyond that. Lol. I'll keep searching. I mean I'm not completely inexperienced but I just want to see how everyone else is doing it. Do you aerosol engine parts before gluing or brush paint after? What to wash parts with and things like that. I'm just trying to get opinions on what the process should consist of. I'm working on the '53 Ford Pickup by AMT

[StevenGuthmiller]

Ask a question & get 30 different answers!

That's pretty much how it works around here.

Everyone has their own processes for building.

I think it would be pretty safe to say that washing parts with a good dish detergent like "Dawn" or the like is a good place to start.

Just nothing with any additives like "hand moisturizers" in it.

Most of us probably assemble sub assemblies like engine block, heads, intake manifold, etc. before painting, & I would guess the majority use either spray paint or an airbrush to paint them.

That should answer at least a couple of questions.

At least until you get the other 29 answers!

 

Steve 

[aurfalien]

Hi,

I recommend this mag on Amazon for $2;

 

[fog cutter]

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=beginning+plastic+kit+modeling+