Time to build some models...

[1964slotnick]

Hi all,

Just wanted to introduce myself and thank everyone in advance for access to this wonderful community. I recently retired after 38 years as an aerospace engineer, and am excited to revisit my childhood passion of building plastic models. My first project is the Italeri 1/72 scale XB-70, easily the coolest airplane ever designed and flown. I could use some help in getting oriented (after 40+ years of inactivity). I am in the process of acquiring the basic tools in general, and also the specific supplies for the model. Several questions:

At the moment, I am at an impasse with the required paints. For this model, several ITA ModelMaker (MM) paints are called out, but I cannot find them anywhere online. Specifically, I'm looking for:

Model Master 1401 Aluminium Plate (Metalizer)
Model Master 1405 Gun Metal (Metalizer)
Model Master 1728 Light Ghost Gray FS36375 (Matte)
Model Master 1550 Flat Red (Matt)
Model Master 1402 Stainless Steel (Metalizer)
Model Master 1749 Black (Flat)
Model Master 1596 White (Semi-gloss)

Since this model is predominantly one color (white), I will order a large can of white acrylic enamel from LVP powder and paints (https://www.lvppaints.com/Cardinal-...int--White-27875--12-Oz-Spray-Can_p_8853.html). The flat black I'm sure I can find at hobby shops. For the others, I'm scratching my head. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Is there a preferred brand/type of clear coat to use? If so, what should I get?

Is there a preferred brand/type of gap filler? This particular model will have some significant gaps that will need attention. I have no idea of what is available today.

I think that's all for now. Can't wait to actually get started. So nice not to have to wake up at 6am every morning!

Jeff

 

[urumomo]

Welcome Aboard !

here's a good source for supplies -- > https://www.scalehobbyist.com/index.php

 

[Jim62]

Welcome to the addict. Much has changed since you last assembled plastic. Most kits have improved greatly over what we built 40 years ago. If you are into aircraft I recommend you give some Tamiya kits a try they are top notch in my book. Academy is pretty good too they just lack in the instruction department, at least the ones I've built have. I rarely use filler but the one I prefer is Perfect Plastic Putty. Very easy to use.
Getting an airbrush is a game changer and you don't have to jump right into an expensive one. Get a cheap combo brush and airpump kit and go from there. We all have our preferred paints we use and you'll just have to figure that one out for what your tastes are. I use Tamiya Acrylics they spray great but take time to get the hang of brushing. Enjoy your journey back into the land of plastic.

 

[Jakko]

Pretty much all of those colours are generic, so all you need is to buy whichever brand of model paint you think you can use. Just about all of them will have colours like flat red, aluminium, etc. in their range.

 

[Eagle-1]

How y'all are!

Rob.

 

[BarleyBop]

wake up at 6am every morning!

You'll want to, just to work more on your builds!

Welcome!
If you have a local shop, like I do, that may determine which paint brand you start with... even if just to see what they have, and easily accessible should you run out, etc.
Check out if they have brand compatible thinner, primer and clear coat too. I'm just experienced enough to know they don't all play well together...there are a few threads with many opinions on that here as well.

Have fun!

Oh, and even if you buy an airbrush or use rattle cans, you will still need brushes for detailing: I think you are better off getting better brushes at a craft/art store, than the branded 'modeler brushes' which may not be as good, for the price.