SpyGlass

For Christmas this year I got a nice airbrush and a compressor. Since then, and since "getting furloughed", I've had a bit of extra time to start building aircraft models. I've become pretty skilled at the airbrush and making my models pretty realistic. Anyone else into building models? I've found that along the way that you learn alot about the aircraft you are building during the process. One thing that I still need to work on is my "washes" and "weathering" for that ultrarealistic look. Oh well, just wondering if anyone else is into this and maybe there are some tips and tricks I haven't found yet...

j3gibbon

I use to do a lot of modeling but never got to the point of air brushing. I am going to be selling 20-30 models on ebay soon, just because I know I'll never get to them (purchased them at auction 10 or 15 years ago). I might suggest going to a ceramic shop or local art institute for some technique questions. I did find dry brushing a good technique to use on the small interior parts like insturment panels, etc. (apply paint to bush, then use paper towel to remove most of the paint to the brush, then as you pass the brush over the panel only the raised parts pick up the paint). Good luck and happy modeling. I wish I had the time to do the same. Also a question for you, what are you doing with completed models? I was looking at selling, but it is hard to ship and show how advanced your skills are, especially on ebay. I was thinking of donating the models to my local air museum if I can't sell them for a good price.

SpyGlass

If I had 30 models they would just sit there too. I've had 2-3 sitting around before and got into all of them, never really completely finishing one. Now I just stick to one at a time. I do dry brush certain parts alot (like you said the cockpit and such). As for my completed models, I bought a glass display case to show them off. I started just making models of the planes I've flown, but I'm branching out a bit now to favorite planes of mine. If you are looking at selling, I would think that just a little bit of time setting up some good lighting and using a tripod, would give you the type of pictures that show good detail. I've seen others on eBay do it. Like you I would be worried about shipping though. I guess one could precision cut some foam to fit snug around the model but then again thats a pain in itself and not guarenteed to work. I'll se if I can snap and post some pics of mine and see how they come out (photography is another hobby I enjoy)...

jsfBoat

I have a few models on the bench. Took a couple of pics to show what i'm working on. The MD-11 and 727-200 are in the painting stages for my college's aviation program. Just finished the wings on the MD-11, have to put some bare metal foil on the leading edges. The F4F Wildcat, has been primered and am finishing taking care of any blemishes, and the P-47 is having the body work finished up. Hope to have 'em done in the next week or two!
There is: FineScale Modeler magazine, model kit reviews, how-to scale modeling, scale modeling products (with a forum) and if you're into airliners try yahoo's airliner modeler group.

DYNASTY HVY

I,ve been known to build a couple.
Fred

DYNASTY HVY

For those who did business with EJ Weldon of CBS model's I regret to announce his passing away.

Fred

JetPiedmont

Anyone ever do business with that guy that ran ATP?

Nice Whale, Fred.

tioc

i´m working on a radio-controlled heli, with an airbrush finish, too.. but my compressor is old and sometimes spits condensed water water .... grr. but it flies

SpyGlass

Buy a in-line moisture-trap/filter for your brush, its really a essential item. I ran into this problem when I was starting out. Look online they are pretty cheap and will save you a load of headaches...

Lab Rat

The heli or the air compressor?