Once you’re done taping your model to your stand, test its stability by pressing your fingers on the front and back of the model. Attaching your model to a hanger will allow you to spray paint the entirety of the car, including the bottom and interior.
If you are using a primer specifically made for model building, you don’t need to apply a base primer, though it could add to the overall consistency of your paint job. Use a gray or off-white primer for your model car. Primer will also act as an adhesive for other layers of paint. A layer of primer is necessary if you want to use real automotive paint because it contains solvents that are harmful to the plastic model. The primer will take anywhere from two to four hours to dry.
Before you paint your model, it’s smart to practice using the spray can on a piece of newspaper. Spray can handles are add-on mechanisms that you can add to any can to make it easier to spray. Enamel paint dries slowly and hardens to a shiny finish. Acrylic paint dries quickly and is easier to clean up. [5] X Research source
You can use either a synthetic or natural-haired brush to paint your car models.
Popular paints for model cars include Testors, Model Masters, Humbrol, Tamiya, PollyScale, Floquil, and Vallejo. [8] X Research source
Remember to wear a protective mask and to lay out a tarp on your work area when using an airbrush.
Lowering the airbrush PSI will make the paint come out thicker. Do not let the thick paint run, or it may ruin your model. Be conservative on thick coats of paint. Remember to airbrush separate parts of your car, such as the hood, as you paint the car’s body.
