With the lockdown restictions many of us have been experiencing it has been a difficult time for all of us and although I have had more hobby time over the last twelve months it has been increasingly difficult to motivate myself. Now things are looking more positive and Spring is upon us, the creative juices are flowing, and it is time to get creative in the cave again. Whilst away from the bench, I had been evaluating why I had struggled with a few processes and techniques over the last year. Being self-critical is one way I continue to better myself as there is always room for improvement.
Airbrushing
I have never been that confident with the airbrush and I still have problems with thinning ratios and generally achieving a nice finish. There are of course times when things go amazingly well, and the paint goes on smoothly, but my efforts are rarely consistent from one project to another.
The issue is most definitely a case of ‘operator error’ as my airbrushing equipment is of good quality. I have an Iwata compressor with an air trap and utilise two airbrushes. My Iwata CP Plus is my go-to AB and I use two needles depending on the type of coverage required. My second AB is a Harder & Steenbeck Infinity and although this cost significantly more than the Iwata it has never produced as pleasing results with my main choice of acrylics. Out of the box I struggled with it and although the trigger is much smoother than the Iwata I have not had as much success with it.
This year I plan to really try and produce better results with both airbrushes and to experiment with different paints, thinners, thinning ratios and air pressures and I will start by treating both airbrushes to a thorough clean.
New products I am going to try are:
I am also going to try out some new primer. I am generally happy using rattle can primer such as Mr. Surfacer1000 and Tamiya fine. Both lay down a nice tough finish, but you do have to be careful not to saturate the model. To get far more control and spray utilising the airbrush I am going to give Mr Hobby Surfacer 1500 black a go.
Photoetch
My next issue that needs addressing is with photoetch and particularly in adhesion. I have tried numerous CA glues and applicators and still find it a messy operation at times. After watching a few highly informative videos and recommendations from admired model makers I am going to give the black rubber toughened CA a try in conjunction with a de-bonder. First up, the colour itself will keep a check on coverage and the de-bonder will mean total clean-up of any overspill. This I am hoping will give a much stronger and cleaner overall connection.
New products I am going to try:
Varnishes
I always varnish after a base coat to prepare for the up-and-coming weathering stages but have had mixed results with many products. I really like Tamiya Clear X22 and often mix it in on a thin final unifying layer, but this can’t always be used on some camo covered vehicles. I also like to use both enamel and oil pin washes and have had most success over a satin finish. Up until now I have used Vallejo satin but have had mixed results. Now I have run out I have been searching online for recommendations and I have just purchased a satin varnish made by VMS (Vantage Modelling Solutions) This looks very thick but apparently there is no need to thin and if applied using the ‘wet’ technique an excellent smooth finish can be obtained.
VMS Satin varnish
Although I don’t build many heavy armour subjects, this year I plan to create my own weld lines and casting texture on a project. To do this I will be using a few new products and tools.
Happy modelling...
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