Starship Modeler Discussion Forums

JimPV wrote:What's a "tac rag" and where do I get one?

Also known as a "tack cloth", you should be able to find one where painting supplies, varnishes and the like are sold. Hardware store.

A few thoughts from a motion graphics artist who has gripped on indies and commercials (but never shot a spaceship, admittedly): 1. Shoot like the (recent) pros: move the camera, not the model. Figure out a way to move the camera along tracks or wheels. Consider making a dolly from skateboard parts ...

I was afraid of taking apart my new Paasche VL, but found that it's really quite simple when you get into it. The instructions even anticipate the user's screwing up to a certain extent. But it's amazing how old paint can creep into every little bit of it. It really should be taken apart and cleaned...

I'd like to mix some powdered pigments with clear lacquer for airbrushing. Can anyone recommend a good, non-yellowing clear lacquer medium?

Thanks.

Clever, especially 6 & 7. Gotta try it.

Thanks....

Nice.

Just confirming -- what would be the order of assembly?

Here's a wizard.
http://led.linear1.org/led.wiz

Type in the values for your LEDs and power supply, and it spits out a diagram. If you click the little question marks, you'll get more info.

Hope it helps.

I've had good results with dabbing "dots" of liquid masking stuff, as Kekker suggested.

But if you'd like a punch for modelers, I hear the Historex punch set from England is ideal. If you're willing to wait for shipping.

The shininess is dependent on the texture of the final coating: if it's glassy smooth, the model will appear shiny. If there's a slight texture, like microscopic bumps, it will not appear shiny.

So it's the final coat that matters.

Blappy wrote:I really need to write an article for the site about this.....

I think you just did.

Thanks for the tips!

There's a Mr. Retarder that is supposed to prevent the strings by delaying the drying of the paint. Apparently the leveling thinner is good, too. Some guys just spray the 1000 variant, not the 500, though. I brush on the 500 to fill scratches. Perfect. Anyway, Googling "Gunze" and "Re...

I've thinned mine at 50% paint, 25% alcohol, 25% water. No worries.

Powdered pigment? ($$)
Talcum powder?

There's a Model Railroad Lighting book on the CulTVman site that has gotten good reviews. Its content is also applicable to starship models, apparently.

Thanks, Frank. I'll try the clear acrylic.

Have any of you guys had any luck with clear Woody Goop, or sprue goo? I'd like to fill some depressions in some clear parts, but even using clear sprue from the same kit, it comes out cloudy. (I'm using styrene in testors liquid cement) Future is an option,but I'd like something thicker, harder and...