figure prep question...

[Art67]

Hello, I have recently come back to military figure painting and would like to get peoples opinions on figure prep. I purchased some DML 1/35 scale figures and I am trying to decide the best way to go about construction. The figures have quite a bit of seperate gear that must be added to the figure which brings me to my question- should I paint the basic figure's uniform and THEN apply the gear after its been painted, or construct the figure and add the gear all at once and THEN paint the figure as a whole? It would seem to be a challenge to paint oak leaf camo once all the gear is installed. Any opinions? Thanks in advance on any help on this matter.

Stuart Berlin

 

[Art67]

P.S - will glue adhesion be an issue if I paint the figure first, and then try to add the seperately painted gear later?

 

[KeithP]

I think you have answered your own question

Take a look at where all the parts will be placed. If you believe it will be too difficult to paint with them in place, then paint seperately.

I always dry fit my figures before I prime. I use some blue tack to place the fit the pieces to see if I can get to all the areas.

When possible, I prefer to paint assembled but in some cases it jsut does not make sense.

Good question on the glue. In myu own experience, some CA glues will not adhere well to painted surfaces. When I can, for large pieces like arms, I will cover the unpainted metal/resin pieces where they'll be glued with a piece of blue tack before I prime/paint. I have been using Elmer's CA gel glue for small pieces and that seems to wrok real well.

Good luck.

Keith

 

[Charles Denomolos]

Hi, Stu, and welcome. My own two bits here- the key for adding equipment, and even arms and legs, is that you want to make certain that your paintbrush can reach all areas of the figure. So, if the arm blocks access to the chest, or torso, don't add it yet. If the canteen makes it difficult to reach an area on his hip, don't add it until after the paint is on.
As for glues, yes, most paint will cause issues with glue adhesion. You will have to either remove paint, or plan very well. It seems like a PITA at first, but, the end results will be worth it.

 

[Art67]

Charles and Keith,

Thanks for the advice and information- your input is greatly appreciated. This forum is a great place to learn new tricks and tips, and any advice is always appreciated.

Stuart