what is cutting compound

I was looking up on how to polish models in the faq and I didn't know what was cutting compound. Could someone please tell me:confused:

Hello and welcome! Basically Compound is a paste that is used to smooth out rough paint finishes in order that wax may be applied for that mirror-like finish!:) The best kind to use is that of Tamiya's if you can find it.

thanks :D

thanks :D

Originally posted by auto
I was looking up on how to polish models in the faq and I didn't know what was cutting compound. Could someone please tell me:confused:

Can I just go to Autozone / Pepboys / Home Depot and just say "Hi, looking for cutting compound. Got any?" ?.

:confused:

Where could you get cutting compound ? :confused:

auto stores have some. they are good if you are using real auto paint. tamiya makes a polishing compound specifically for models. it works great in my opinion. i picked up a cheapo can of auto polish and it doesnt work half as well as the tamiya stuff. you can find it at any well stocked hobby shop. look in your phone book. otherwise you can always look online for shops near you or even find shops that will ship stuff to you. im sure it wont take much time to find tamiya stuff. its the gold standard

I got a question, how the I get the compund out of the door-shut lines? And will wax take out the swirl marks? how do I apply wax? and another question about paint, is automotive paint thicker than tamiya paint?