Tools for fine detailing

[Hemi Killer]

I am looking to improve my skills and I am wondering if there are certain tools out there I might be overlooking.

I have some hobby files, but they leave a very rough finish. Other than sanding sticks and the normal micro mesh and stuff, are there any files that are super fine? I am looking for something rigid like a file, but in a very fine finish, that would leave the surface ready for primer.

any other tools I might be able to use?

I am having trouble getting a nice finish in tight corners and stuff, i usually end up sanding too much of the peripheral areas

[corvettekid_7684]

I'm almost certain I've seen sanding sticks made just for tight areas. In fact, they might even be made by Micromesh

[countach79]

I've just had these turn up in the mail today, I haven't had a chance to use them but they look and feel pretty good

I'm not sure how fine the grit goes tho, I got some 320 grit it s quite rough tho

Got mine from ebay they were $15 Australian posted

http://www.scalemodellingnow.com/hn-...sandingneedles

[Hemi Killer]

Originally Posted by countach79

I've just had these turn up in the mail today, I haven't had a chance to use them but they look and feel pretty good

I'm not sure how fine the grit goes tho, I got some 320 grit it s quite rough tho

Got mine from ebay they were $15 Australian posted

http://www.scalemodellingnow.com/hn-...sandingneedles

You know what, I have some of those. I don't care for them that much. they do help in some situations though.

[MPWR]

The most useful, most important tool that I can recommend for detail work is a set of measuring calipers.

The second is a pile of reference material (or a fast internet connection).

Beyond that, detailing tools scan be anything- from a set of good tweezers and a magnifying visor to a small machine shop.

What are you wanting to make?

[CrateCruncher]

If files were too fine textured they would clog very quickly. I use needle files for rough shaping. Yes, They get clogged. I unclog my files with a brass wire toothbrush and occasionally an old hobby knife blade. I use steel wool wrapped around a round toothpick (for white metal) or wet/dry sandpaper (for resin) CA'd to a flat toothpick for final polishing before primer.

Disclaimer: Everyone has a different way that works for them. This is just what works for me.

[Hemi Killer]

I hadn't thought of steel wool, i will definitely try that.

I'm looking for stuff (like the steel wool) to sand and detail/shape better in tight areas. Basically just picking everyone's brain to see if there is something I am overlooking. I have learned a lot on this forum. Using brass and steel rod to make hood struts, shock bodies, etc. I'm always looking for new tricks to utilize.

I have a set of calipers in the garage, i can use them on the bench as well.

[914joe]

I end up making dozens of different sanding sticks with all builds. Some fat, some skinny, flat toothpicks, round toothpicks,popsicle sticks,ect... Whatever shape & grit the job calls for.

[Hemi Killer]

Originally Posted by 914joe

I end up making dozens of different sanding sticks with all builds. Some fat, some skinny, flat toothpicks, round toothpicks,popsicle sticks,ect... Whatever shape & grit the job calls for.

This seems like the road I'll have to take.

I have a 360 Modena I butchered the paint job on. The plastic is crazed and I am having a hard time getting in the side intakes to smooth everything out.

[Hemi Killer]

this is the type of stuff I am wondering about

http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/image/10248598b/30/1