First White Metal Build, help!

[theseeker]

This is my first white metal build and I am astounded by the detail! It is this kit by Andrea http://www.andrea-miniatures.com/360/360-esp.htm construction of the horse has been a pain, however I have truly enjoyed it. The seams were a nightmare as I am somewhat of a perfectionist. I would appreciate some advice regarding a good putty to use for filling. I used Andrea Sculpt and I hate it. I have a Pegaso on the shelf and I need something better for the next build. The attached pics are of the horse after much filling, sanding, filing and priming. Once again, this is my first attempt with white metal and I would greatly appreciate any input. The horse will be painted with oils in a dapple grey. BTW, the detail in Andrea kits are exceptional! Last note; in the second pic you will notice a seam in the horses neck above the peg. It was left there intentionally as the saddle will cover it.

 

[Guy]

I use Magic Sculpt to do the seams of a metal horse. After roughing in the seams with MS I take a semi-hard large paint brush and with warm water work the seams until almost smooth. Requires very little sanding afterwards. I use it on resin too.

 

[John Long]

Filling white metal sometimes can be a pain. As Guy recommends, Magic-Sculp works pretty well. You can further smooth it after it has set with 0000 steel wool. I haven't used Andrea-Sculpt, so I don't know what it's like. Aves feathers the best of the putties I've used. Either one you choose should be used when they are freshly mixed to get them to lay down.

 

[Dan Morton]

I agree with the MS. That's the best choice. A little water in a soft paint brush will work most of the time. You can also use a little hand lotion or something similar to smooth rough putty. It is very easy to over-do the lotion however. Wet the paint brush with lotion and apply slowly. If it takes more than one application, I wipe the paint brush on a clean cloth to remove the lotion and residue putty you've picked up in the bristles. No matter whether you use water or lotion, be sure you thoroughly clean your brush when done - otherwise you'll ruin the brush! IMHO heating the putty to hurry up the set time can sometimes screw up the smoothness. When used to fill gaps, I let it air dry. Good luck and let us know how it works!

All the best,
Dan

 

[theseeker]

I appreciate the tips for the putty as I have a Pegaso on the shelf of Napoleon on horseback. I have finished the current pony and I will begin the painting process tomorrow using oils. I will post pics if any one is interested in the process.

 

[Guy]

I would love to see your progress as you paint the horse. Thanks in advance.

 

[theseeker]

I would love to see your progress as you paint the horse. Thanks in advance.

The base coat goes on tomorrow morning at 10:30 CST! The final primer coat is done and all is well with the pony. This will be a true PITA as I am going to try to paint a medium to dark dapple grey. The index card is ready and the brushes and paints are lined up for the event and my wife is leaving for six hours. She totally supports my hobby.
I will post pics during the progress.