Neeh help with paint finishing! :)

[nicecar]

I'm still quite n00by in terms of models, ive only "completed" one model in the past few years.

I'm curious about polishing, ive done it with die-cast models using automotive "auto glym", will this be fine with my plastic body? And will i need a clearcoat over the paint or not? i have a slight orange peely effect too, but im sure that can be fixed.

Thanks in advance,
Chris.

[sjelic]

Auto Glym is OK, clear depends, I always use it, but Tamiya solid paint sprays don't need it.
Really depends on you, only paints that need clear before polishing are metallics (that are gloss of course).

[nicecar]

So, if i polish straight over the black gloss with no clear, it will be ok? its already very shiny, just some areas of small orange peel, will a polish fix this?

Thanks
Chris.

[stevenoble]

You can use some rubbing compound from many of the modeling companies, Tamiya, Finishers and Mr Hobby (Gunze) to name a few.This will bring up the shine and remove the orange peel effect.Then go over that with your Auto Glym polish and you will have an excellent finish.
The compounds come in different grades, course, medium, fine etc.A very handy item to have in your modeling box.I have all the 3 grades but if you paint well in the first place you probably won't need the course grade that much and yes you can polish straight over the black gloss.

[nicecar]

I have never in the 6 or so years of modeling ive done got a half decent paint job.

This one is alright, just some orange peel, a new record for me! I need to find out how to get mirror finishes without having to use rubbing compounds.

Thanks for the replies!
Chris

[sjelic]

Originally Posted by nicecar

I need to find out how to get mirror finishes without having to use rubbing compounds.

Chris

eeeeeer......impossible

I know I never did it

got close thou

[Big Kahuna]

Originally Posted by sjelic

eeeeeer......impossible

I know I never did it

got close thou

2 part Auto Clear will get you there.