Brush Painting Plastic Helicopter

[Randy Winkman]

Sorry if this basic topic is the subject of chat in another thread. What are my options for brush painting this toy in 3 different colours to make it look like a particular air ambulance helicopter? I used to make Tamiya/Airfix kits years ago so am familiar with the little pots of paint I used then. My recollection is that matt goes on more smoothly than gloss. Are there any other options? Especially something in a satin finish which might be more realistic than gloss and cover better?

I'm open minded about spray paining too but I'm not sure I can take the propellors off and the skids look really awkward to spray.

Cheers.

[46and2]

I would start with a decent primer first in any case. Tamiya rattle can primer is excellent for getting a good base for painting.

Then if brush painting thin the paints properly with appropriate thinner/water and while painting regularly dip the tip brush into pure thinner/water to keep the paint from drying out on it.

[Randy Winkman]

Cheers. Thinning paints sounds good as having a nice smooth finish is a key thing for me. Primer sounds like a good idea but as I say, I'm not sure about the practicalities of spray painting. And if I can do the primer that way, might I not just as well do the top coat that way too?