Painting Tips

[raptor3dpilot]

So I have two Depron/MPF (Model Plane Foam) aircraft that are just about ready for paint. Looking for some suggestions on how not to screw them up. HAHA. I've spent a lot of time building them straight, prep sanding every inch, and now it's time to paint.

First question, as of now, these are just airframes (RCP F-22v2, RCP F-18v3) with no electronics. Should I paint before the electronics install or just install the electronics and then cover them with tape prior to painting? I worry about hot gluing the servos down directly to paint and having them come off due to the paint peeling from the foam. Maybe I should just cover the servo locations with a square piece of tape, paint, then install... hmm.

I don't have access to an airbrush system nor the funds to buy one, so I was planning on just using Testors rattlecan paint to paint them. I'm thinking a light coat first and then finish it off with a heavier coat after it dries. Is that the correct process?

Decals are next, I'm sticking with the standard AF markings for the F-22 and Blue Angels theme for the F-18. Anyone have suggestions on decal paper that works well with an inkjet printer?

I've built and flown several F-22s, F-117, FT Spitfires, and other aircraft, so that is the reason I am spending a lot of building time on making these "pretty". lol

 

[Tritium]

Test on scrap foam FIRST! That will tell you if your paint and technique will work as desired.

The tape over the area where glue will be applied is what I would do.

Thurmond

 

[DDSFlyer]

I'm interested in what paints are best for this dollar tree foam board? I was going to make a FTDuster and was wondering if I could just run down to the local Walmart or home depot to buy a couple of rattle cans myself. I have only used some expensive paint from the LHS to paint my minwaxed bloody wonder. I'm looking for a cheaper can of paint that works

 

[Craftydan]

After the minwax massage, the cheap rattle can paint works well for large areas.

keep in mind, some of the cheaper rattle can paints are translucent -- the base color will mix with the top coat. as always test on scrap, including paint A over B and B over A. Paints sold as "2-n-1" or "one coat" or "Paint + Primer" are typically thicker and opaque, and can make a nice finish if you're careful with it.