Brewster Buffalo in 1/56 scale

[johnnytodd]

Busy autumn equals slow model progress.  Anyway this was started back in September and just finished this week.  Still on track to complete 12 models for 2017 (this is #11)

[lastvautour]

Excellent workmanship John. You have talent. I love your work.

Lou

[Boomerang]

Nicely done!

Gordon

[FlyingS]

Excellent workmanship!
Do you hand paint the whole fuselage?
How do you do the lettering?
Harv

[johnnytodd]

Hi Harv,  The fuselage is airbrushed where the blue meets the grey, otherwise everything is hand painted - no decals.

[lastvautour]

I wish I could paint like that. On your next project, give us a stroke by stroke tutorial on how you did it.

Lou

[FlyingS]

I've been thinking about getting an airbrush? Any pros and cons you can offer?
Harv

[lastvautour]

I have one but rarely use one on my wooden projects.

Lou

[johnnytodd]

Next project I'll give step by step painting progress.

Aichi Val is already underway!

Airbrush & compressor was a gift from wife a few years ago - I don't think it was too expensive - maybe $125.  It sat in the box until just this spring when I finally bit the bullet and tried to learn a new skill.... it's been frustrating how many pitfalls I encounter:  clogs, spitting, puddling etc.  more mistakes than success!  but it can give that fade transition and occasionally I achieve a decent spot cammo...  now attempting to produce a narrow line...

[lastvautour]

I gave up on narrow lines. I use rolled masking tape to give a soft edge or just mask as per normal. I fine that I could not master the fine detail work you see on other models. I just use it as I would us a spray can but now have the selection of many more colours. I use acrylic with a few drops of alcohol and it does well for me.

Lou

[FlyingS]

Good info, thanks. I'm trying to keep it simple for now, but I think it could be a useful tool. Right now I would be happy to have more time to dedicate to my models. My wife tells me I have too many sticks and not enough fire. My Bearcat is ready for paint, so this will be my first fully painted model.