How To: Tips on Airbrushing a model body

Here are some tips on how to use the airbrush on a model body!
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[@algray1195]

I am a retired Soldier and live full time and travel in a fifth wheel camper. Two things: I watch your channel everywhere! Second, I have no choice but to spray outside, wherever I am. I’ve even sprayed overlooking the Grand Canyon, nothing more relaxing!LOL. But I get descent results outside also. As long as the sun shines. Rough hobby trying to get things perfect but it’s all about the hobby. I’m not a rocket scientist and I definitely don’t have the facility, I enjoy it nonetheless. Thank you for taking your time and sharing your love of styrene with us.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Very cool. Back in 2015, We bought a 2006 Ram 2500 4X4 Diesel with a 31' toy hauler 5th wheel trailer as a package deal. It was a steal, and we were not looking to buy anything. Every chance we got we took that trailer up north near Flagstaff and camped for the weekend. We didn't have any toys for the trailer. So, we just went out with the 4X4 and explored. I also took many models with me and just built them and relaxed. It was great. We sold the trailer as we didn't have a place to keep it and was paying $100 a month to keep it. Plus, we would have liked a different trailer. We sold it just before we found out we were finally pregnant. So, the timing was great on that. Would like to have another one and do that again!

[@donaldwallace1525]

Sir, I'm late to this video. I enjoyed your post. I can't imagine the freedom and joy that your lifestyle offers. I'm old and disabled and just getting into modeling. I also enjoy the hobby but I'll never get to paint one while overlooking the grand canyon. Thanks for your service to our country. I pray you have a blessed retirement.

[@johncater7861]

Just being reading about Scale finishes paint. More power to them and I hope the business continues to succeed.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Cool.

[@heribertogomez7]

I learned from you more than other videos I've seen here thank you

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad to help! Thank you!

[@neiljumpinjackflash7551]

Thanks Raoul! You are one of the very few who share their expertise with others. You wouldn't believe how many videos, the guys leave out the details that matter the most. I spray outside as well and let the model dry for afew days then colour sand. My question for you is do you paint the inside and out every time the same colour then block out the inside for interior colour, doesn't that effect the interior colour slightly? I mask off the enterior but then it makes for alot of extra work and headach if I get bleed through under the tape. Thanks again for the great video!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you! I don't always spray the inside of the body. I will on ones that you know you will see the areas and if I'm painting the chassis body color. Others Like this Camaro that the chassis doesn't fit real tight will get blacked out. The headliner is often sprayed after or even brush painted. Most people don't notice and it is heavily shaded area so I don't worry if the tint is off a little.

[@neiljumpinjackflash7551]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler Thanks for taking the time to reply! Great info!

[@brandonchase4932]

Thanks for the video . Very informative an visual step by step persya unlike other videos and helps me create productive new hobby in progress

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks! Glad it was helpful!

[@Adam7054]

"It's going to happen" You're a god among men, man. I'm gonna get that quote tatted on my arm so I can see it while I'm airbrushing.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

LOL!😂

[@bradco12]

Absolutely excellent videos--you have the experience, skills and teaching ability. I thank you for these very informative videos. They stand apart, b

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you so much!

[@jamesrabner4053]

I think I love the 2x4 and holders more than learning how to airbrush lol

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I have been asked a few times about those. I should do a How to on those!

[@bigbama34]

Really good video. I'm ready to try and use my new air brush now.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Cool! I’m glad this was helpful!

[@sydrider6023]

Tks a lot for this tutorial of very high quality.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

You're welcome!

[@michaelcooke2559]

Thanks. When I get an airbrush this will come in handy.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

You bet!

[@LScott97]

Great video! Thank you!!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

You are so welcome!

[@operatormakarov9699]

Thanks this was really helpful

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad to hear!

[@modelcar1589]

Thank you for the information

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

You bet!

[@wayneburgess6591]

That was great. Thank you

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

You’re welcome.

[@charlie418791]

Nice tips.👍

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you!

[@stephentaylor1030]

Great video! I'm having trouble with painting the model body and I think this will help out a lot.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad I could help!

[@stephentaylor1030]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler I think it's more of my airbrush than anything I think. I bought a fan tip and needle for my TG Talon which is a .66 mm and didn't think about the insert needing to be the same size.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Those fan tips can take a lot of air and many hobby compressors can't keep up. I bought one for my Grex but have not tried it yet. It came with a warning about the air usage. Claims the Grex airbrush compressor can keep up but will be maxed out. I have an old Craftsman 10 gal 90 PSI one that will though.

[@stephentaylor1030]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler That's exactly what's happening to me. I wonder why they didn't disclose that but, the sales wouldn't happen. I've noticed when I clean out the airbrush with a cleaning solution, it does a lot better and holds the airflow. Thanks for the info.

[@davidwalls4693]

Looks good

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks!

[@modelsbyhand]

I learned somethings from this. Thank you!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Great! Thanks!

[@charlespalavros6952]

Thanks for sharing

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for watching!

[@adamgore215]

Great tips, enjoyed getting a bit of an insight into how you get such a professional finish on your builds and loving how the Camaro is progressing 👍

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chassegallerie2910]

That's a pretty Camaro! The vid is pretty informative. Tho, I don't have an airbrush... Yet. For the vinyl top, I wonder if the Magic black "vinyl" paint from the Redline shop (Hot Wheels restoration shop) might be a good product. I mean, it's a textured paint and seems to end up the right color to imitate vinyl. Tho, I dunno if there would be enough in those small bottles to do a complete roof on a 1/24-25 scale.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you!

[@THROTTLEPOWER]

Nice tutorial................................👍

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for watching!

[@MileHighScaleModeler]

I have a few questions. 1. I am curious that if metallic paint is used and there is a hair or a few small spots like what you had on the hood, how do you get rid of those issues with the metallic paint before clearing? 2. With the hood, trunk and roof you paint both horizontal and vertical. However on the side panels of the body you strictly just spray horizontally. Why is that? Why not go vertical and horizontal? 3. Scale finishes is enamel based paint. Is it thinner with lacquer to give it the drying properties lacquers possess? I’m curious the drying time (hours or days) for scale finishes paint and if you use a dehydrator to speed up the process?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks you! 1, Most metallics if you sand them you need to spray another coat of metallic. I have done this on occasion. I covered this on my 69 Yenko Chevelle build video's. Once it is flat and the color is uniform that is when it is best to clear. Other times it is best to clear over the color then color sand it flat and polish. Basically burying the flaw in the clear. 2 Yes you can do it on the sides as well but changing the angles you spray does a similar thing. Keeping a farther distance is helpful in getting even coverage. 3 That is probably a question for Scale Finishes. I don't add any thinner to it or recommend it. I tried it a few times but whatever he uses didn't mix well with my thinner that I had and it separated. I don't use a dehydrator or worry about the drying process. The parts sit in my garage to dry for a few days. I live in Arizona and it is usually hot and dry.

[@ramblers69]

Nice tutorial buddy, :) 😎 👍

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks 👍

[@iancameron1662]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler were did you buy the air comp and air brush..how much.also the site to buy that paint.thanks

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

The compressor and airbrush I bought off eBay.

[@kirchnerfarm]

Nice color Ralph...I'm enjoying this build. Awesome!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks 👍

[@raphaelhernandez4088]

Thanks for showing.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

No problem!

[@jerrycole4400]

Thank you on the information on the tape and the foil. Do you use tack cloth to rub down before you spray your cars

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

No but I usually wash them right before and I use the airbrush to blow any dust off right before I spray.

[@jimbucci3474]

Great video Raoul, very informative.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad you liked it!

[@robk5865]

It's a really good video, detailing some of the finer points of shooting body paint. My only gripe (not really, just a pet peeve that has burned me personally in the past) is the direct pour from the paint bottle to the airbrush jar...any time I try that, I wind up with a small amount of unseen wet paint on my glove that somehow always winds up getting on my workpiece. I think I paid 15 bucks on amazoon for 200 long pipettes. For us clumsy dudes...

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I have had that happen but rarely. Since I mount everything before I paint. That way I don’t touch anything before I load the paint. I also make sure that the parts I’m painting are placed away from me so I don’t accidentally get overspray on them. I also thoroughly clean the airbrush so it doesn’t spit out any surprises when painting.

[@joesierocinski9754]

Paint looks great. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for watching!

[@christopherlarkin590]

Great video! Do you apply clear finish after u paint? If so, what do u use and how do you apply? Thanks

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes I do! Check out this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oojCg62emq2UotE

[@bryanharris7700]

Thanks Raoul ! But I have another how to video for you that I should make which how did you make your body stand I know it's a 2x4 but what is the wire? Is it tubing and what did you use to bend it with? Thanx in advance

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you! I just might do that. I need to make a few more anyways. The wire is from metal coat hangers.

[@wudbcarmodeller2713]

Great tips, beautiful application of color. No tip is ever wasted my friend. Best regards.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you!

[@GrandNational66]

Very informative...thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stephicohu]

Good video

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks

[@BAHDK]

excellent teaching really helped, im getting a spray gun now

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad it was helpful!

[@evanhunterblbier]

Great video. Do you think it’s easier to start with a trigger airbrush vs a dual action?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

My second air brush (and 3rd also) is dual action with the top button. So, I learned on them. This trigger style just feels more natural. This one is also dual action. Pull the trigger back just a hair and the air will start to flow with no paint. Pull it back farther and the paint will flow. The air flow does not change but the farther you pull back, the more paint will come out of it. You can adjust this and also there is a stop you can set.

[@seanh2390]

a timely video for me. thanks!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bigcharliesmodelgarage296]

Good tips. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnfry8097]

New subscribe to you channel here. What airbrush do you have? I like the trigger style that one has with the bottle off to the side as well.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for the sub! I use the Grex Tritium TS. www.grexusa.com/grexairbrush/products.php5?id=Tritium.TS

[@brucesoding9627]

Thanks 👍👏👏👏

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Welcome 👍

[@user-mm3cm6fi5e]

Haven't bought 1 yet but learn as u go right.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes!

[@thescalemodelcarguychannel8681]

Great tutorial video brother!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Glad you liked it!

[@therandomchargerdaytona1454]

you just helped save my 1968 dodge charger model

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Very cool! How?

[@DentZero123]

Question my friend you may know or you may not know? Can you run automotive paint through here if you thin it out enough, for small scratches on cars????????

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes, you can but if it has metal flakes in it. Some are a bit big and can clog up the airbrush. Most pearls are really fine and will not. Just depends on the paint.

[@benjaminHinsleyOffschoolacount]

where do you buy your paints? and how do you match paint codes from revell to testors or tamiya etc.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

If I'm looking for a specific color, I will get it from Scale Finishes. I don't match paint codes with Testor's or Tamiya. I just go with what I see is close enough. Most the time it is what I have on hand or easily available.

[@alanq64]

I like the style of your airbrush. A miniature version of the one that is used to paint full sized cars. Gonna have to look for that kind. I have an Iwata with the trigger on top.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks. I really like this one but have used others with the trigger on top.

[@dougmulle2627]

Master makes a few models with the trigger like that in the $60 range that work great!

[@michaelbaykara2322]

the "how to's" is a good direction your taking, one question: when color sanding whats your grit process? or is it one grit to smooth out and get some of the particles out?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I did a video on color sanding and polishing paint. Each situation is different but this should help. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIfOf6Z5rKxkm80

[@michaelbaykara2322]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler thanks Raoul

[@jerrycole4400]

What kind of automotive paint do you use for your clear Sir

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Check out this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oojCg62emq2UotE

[@richardbennett8678]

We've do I get clear flat, and shiny acrylic top coat?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Sorry. I don’t know the answer for that. I really don’t use acrylic or any flat clear.

[@brucepechtel7791]

I have a question. I airbrushed Tamiya x-21 flat base on a bomb for the a10-warthog. After it dried it became powdery and rubbed right off the bomb. Can someone please tell me what might have gone wrong? I would appreciate any kind of input or ideas as to what might of went wrong. Thank you in advance.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Sorry, I have not had that happen and don't know. Maybe one of my subscribers would know?

[@brucepechtel7791]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler Cool. Thank you.

[@jonathongriffith279]

I’m an avid user of ScaleFinishes, also. I’m sure you’ve seen my green and red Shelby’s, and I’ve been using a cheap Aztec airbrush. Now that I’m getting a dual action airbrush, this is really helpful

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I have seen your work. Good stuff! Glad this is helpful!

[@butchpeyton2469]

Who makes that ready to use enamel paint? Just getting into airbrush and I prefer enamel as well.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Scale Finishes!

[@bradleyjones5932]

you said the airbrush was set up for gravity feed, i thought it looked like a siphon feed, just from the side and not from under the airbrush???, new to this so i am probably wrong, please let me know, and keep up the great vids.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

If I did then that is a mistake. The airbrush is a side load and can be set up to do either way. I have gravity load cups and been using them more now, but in this video I’m using the glass siphon one. I like the siphon one as you can see when you are getting low on paint and can stop before the airbrush starts to sputter. The gravity’s cups are stainless and you can’t see the paint if you have the lid on them.

[@bradleyjones5932]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler Awesome, thanks for the reply, i have a lot to learn

[@georgemcdermott7115]

Nice color, I would like to know where you got it .

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you! This is Scale Finishes that I am spraying on the 71 Camaro SS.

[@johncater7861]

Has that bottle of Scale finishes a ball-bearing in it?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes they do.

[@garyparker2969]

Awesome Tutorial Raul and Beautiful Color on The Camaro n Charger as Well. Have a Blessed Wknd Brother. P.S I Used to Live in Saffard, Ft. Thomas, Jernigan Ranch, S Side of Mt.Graham/Wilcox Areas of AZ. Where r You Located ??

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thank you!. It's funny but both cars are different colors. Charger is Testors Chrysler Engine Red from the Model Master .5 oz bottle. And the Camaro is Cranberry Red from Scale Finishes. Once sprayed they both look the same! I'm in Peoria.

[@islandrc-duke1972]

nice tips,also every now and then take the cap of the airbrush off and clean the tip of the needle,it helps keep splatter down from the tip getting built up with paint.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks for the info! My badger airbrushes did that more than this Grex does.

[@johnnysmith5961]

How much time between coats on average please?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I just do a few minutes between coats. Not usually more than five.

[@hooligangeneral300]

What airbrush is that? I like the trigger vs the pasche that I have.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

It’s a Grex Tritium side feed.

[@hooligangeneral300]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler and what are the sanding pads? I’d like to find some like that.

[@mariochesser7849]

How many oz. would you say you use for color?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Usually around 1.5.

[@justinharlick5688]

What type of gun and compressor is that

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

It’s a Grex Tritium.

[@vintagecollector788]

Does anybody know where to buy the paint?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Scale Finishes has a web sight. Testor’s has discontinued the Model Master line.

[@emmanuelphua]

what is colour sand?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

That is when you sand just the top of the color coat without going through. Just taking off the texture from the top. You need very fine sandpaper for that.

[@avarz2889]

Do you think this is cheaper than buying spray paint to paint the body’s?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

No. Spray paint is cheaper.

[@avarz2889]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler even if I have a airbrush kit?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Airbrushing gives you better control and a much better finish. To me it beats spray paint in all aspects except cost. I really like using Scale Finishes paint but have used others. Also I like to use real automotive clear on my builds as well. Great gloss and very durable but also expensive.

[@TerryWilsonModels]

Is that an enamel paint?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes. I prefer enamel myself.

[@foscoe2496]

wereu bye the paint at

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Hobby Nut Models Direct Link! www.hobbynutmodels.com/?sca_ref=3468610.OkuYhMuXMJ Copy this link as it will help support the channel! They have MCW paints. Also check out Scale Finishes. www.scalefinishes.com Use promo code "MuscleCar10" for 10% off your order! This is not just 10% off your first order. Use this on every order! Cannot be combined with any other specials that Scale Finishes may be offering. Sorry. But check the Websight often for them!

[@Ken-sl4um]

No cure time between coats?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Not really. But in AZ, I haven't had a problem.

[@Ken-sl4um]

thanks

[@styrenebuilds6851]

Tight

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks!

[@robertbuckner2353]

If you're using a second coat you can sand metallics.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes. I have done that a few times. But don’t sand on the last coat before clear.

[@RescueResponceTeam]

I don't want to spend the money on an airbrushing kit I did see a single-use airbrushing kit for $30 would I be able to connect that airbrush up to a air compressor I already have if anyone knows anything about my question I would welcome some feed back

[@dave3805]

I'm a rookie, but I would suggest against a single use brush. Even if you did, you'd have to make sure the hose fittings will work with the brush. Some have success with nail polish brushes. I bought a Paasche H and am quite happy.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I'm not sure what a single use airbrush is? Did you mean single stage? Adapting to an air compressor is pretty easy. I have done it and adapters are made but can be hard to find. You just have to make sure you have a pressure regulator that you can adjust down to 15-20 psi. My compressor is pretty old and only goes up to 90 PSI and some newer ones go to 180. Way to much for an air brush.

[@Zddcffggfgv]

No primer used?

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Primer and bodywork were all ready performed.

[@chauffeurmarco]

You paint a 70' Charger in orange. That was the popular color in in that decade. Charger, Mustang, Chalenger and few others.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

I built a 69 Charger in orange. It is a stock RT. Only other orange Charger that I build will be a General Lee.

[@chauffeurmarco]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler oh yeah! Our good old General Lee. I watch them all

[@mikekiss5757]

What airbrush is that.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

It’s a Grex Tritium TS.

[@mikekiss5757]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler ty do much

[@labspeciman7402]

You don't sand your primer? I sand the body beforehand and don't use primer. I use spray cans. I have to graduate to an airbrush in time.

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Yes I do. I usually do two layers of primer depending on the amount of body work.

[@labspeciman7402]

@@TheMuscleCarModeler OK I couldn't tell but cool..

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Most of the last coat is sanded with 600 and is really smooth.

[@WarcraftIsForVirgins]

Theres that plane flying overhead...

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

where? LOL!

[@DannyMcDonald-vf6tb]

You should go with acrylic instead of enamel. Cost is way cheaper, faster drying time and clean up is much easier. I have been air brushing for a few years now and I prefer acrylic over enamel any day!!

[@TheMuscleCarModeler]

Thanks! I don't have any issues with enamel. Dry time is not an issue in AZ!