Putting Together a Model Car: Part 2
First things first: Clear out an area. Depending on how long you plan for this to take, what level it is, and how big it is, you may want to select an area other than the kitchen table. For example, if it is a level 1 model, you can go ahead and use it. It will probably take an hour or two, and you won’t have to break out the paint. However, if it is a level 2 or 3 model, you may be taking several days to a week on this model, depending on how much you work on it every day. Once you have found yourself an area to work with, spread out some newspapers. Even if you have a level 1 model, you are probably going to want some newspaper. Some decals require water, and it makes for an easier cleanup. Also, you can just scatter all plastic excess all over the paper and then just roll it up after the model is complete. Now that the work area is set, spread out your tools and open up your model.
First, there should be an instruction sheet. Keep it, you’re going to need it. Then, there should be the parts. Most likely, you bought a model with at least some plastic parts trees. These trees will be rods of plastic that hold the different parts on. Spread these out before you, and use the instruction manual to determine which parts need to be painted which color. These parts will usually have numbers on the back side of them. If they don’t, it should still be fairly easy to determine which is which. Make sure that you remember which part is which after you disconnect it from the tree to be painted. Now, it is time to paint.
Your best bet is to paint all the parts that are the same color at the same time. Shake the paint very well, dip the brush in, and start painting. Watch out, model paint can look pretty bad if you only give one coat and if your coats are not even. After that, you can dip your paintbrush in the paint thinner, spin it around a little, and wipe the excess paint off with a paper towel. Now, we can assume that you are done painting all of the parts, and you are ready to assemble the model. Make sure that you let the paint sit for several hours to make sure it is dry.
Now, when assembling the model, there are a few specific things to remember. Number 1 is to always follow the directions. Number 2 is to not use too much glue. Number 3 is to watch where you put the glue. If you put glue on clear plastic parts like windshields, it will show forever. Also, if your glue contacts your paint in a visible area, it can take the paint off. Also, don’t use your fingers for smaller parts. The fact that there will be glue there means that the glue will end up on your hands and can smudge the piece. Use tweezers if you need to. Next, be gentle. Roughing a model around can lead to it breaking or parts being moved around. Don’t force parts into position. If something doesn’t quite fit, like a wheel and axle, sand down the axle with a little sandpaper just a little. Make sure you follow the directions on the decals for your model. Some model decals have different directions than others, and “waterslide” decals can be very difficult, so make sure you are careful. Finally, have fun with your new model!
