Take note of the numbers next to the illustrations. These numbers will appear on the plastic frame that the pieces are attached to. It would be a good idea to check your kit and make sure that all of the pieces are present. If you’re missing a part, return the model and get a new one. [2] X Research source Pay attention to the painting process. In most cases, you’ll have to paint the model first, but sometimes, you may have to save it for last.
Alternatively, pat the parts dry with a lint-free cloth. This step is important because it will remove any dirt or oils that may prevent the paint from sticking. If you already assembled your model, you can wipe it down with a damp cloth instead.
Use actual model paint. It comes in tiny bottles.
For best results, use small, natural hair paintbrushes in sizes 0, 2, and 4. Consider practicing on a spare piece of plastic. The frame that the parts were attached to is a great choice. Don’t apply thick coats of paint, and don’t go over areas that are still wet.
If you have metallic paint, use a separate brush, even if you cleaned the brush well.
Your model kit may have multiple frames.
Don’t cut right next to the piece, or you may end up getting a hole in the piece. Don’t break the pieces off either. Only cut off the pieces for the part that you are building. Don’t cut the other pieces off just yet.
If you painted the parts, the sanding will remove some of that paint. Touch up the bare areas using a small brush. [10] X Research source If your part has seams on it, you can sand them down with a small file, or you can scrape them off with a craft blade.
Model kits don’t always fit together perfectly, especially the cheaper ones. Don’t worry about small gaps. You can fill these in with putty later.
You only need a thin layer of glue. If you use too much, the glue will leak between the parts. If there are small gaps between the parts, fill them in with extra glue or cement. Don’t worry about the bigger parts just yet.
Refer to the handling time. This means that you can handle the part without it coming apart.
If you want to, you can set the completed parts on top of their respective illustrations.
Wait until the putty cures before moving on. If the putty still is not smooth, you can sand it down with a file. If you painted your model previously, you will need to paint over the putty so that it blends in.
You may have to do this in several stages by completing smaller parts first, then assembling them into larger parts.
If you handle your model before the glue or cement is done curing, the model may fall apart.
Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.
Trim the decals down with scissors before you begin. This will make them easier to work with and reduce seams and borders.
