Guide to Painting Lionel HO and O Scale Model Trains
Painting HO and O scale model trains is a great way to personalize your collection or simply to update it. Before beginning, though, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to prepare. You don’t want to stop in the middle of the project because you’re lacking the right tools or because you haven’t thought it through.
All metal and wood surfaces on model trains should be gently sanded until the surface is smooth. Your best bet is to use fine 400 grit sandpaper. It serves its purpose and its texture won’t damage your model trains. If you’re painting plastic, most often, you’ll only need to ensure it’s clean and dry. Since oils from our fingers will transfer onto plastic, you run the risk of the paint not applying properly if it’s not free of oil or other particles. Usually, primer isn’t necessary for model trains made of plastic.
Although higher quality paint brushes will cost a bit more, the investment is worth it in the long run. Brush streaks will be easily seen and the potential for loose fibers to stick to your paint is higher with less expensive paintbrushes. The same applies to your paint. Enamel paint is most versatile and appropriate for HO and O scale model trains. It’s also recommended you consider an airbrush technique for larger areas. This ensures more even coverage and isn’t nearly as time consuming.
If your model trains require more than one color, as most usually do, consider using the newer “painter’s” tape versus traditional masking tape. It’s easier to remove and you’re less likely to be left with the sticky residuals common with masking tape. Another product on the market that’s excellent for model trains is a liquid painting mask. Application is a breeze and once it’s dried, you can continue with your painting project. Once the project is completed, you can easily peel the mask off. You’re left with clean lines where your two paints seamlessly meet.
A few other tips to keep in mind:
• Add a few bb’s to your jars of acrylic paint. It makes mixing easy.
• Remember to thoroughly clean your brushes after each use so that they’re ready for the next project.
• If you apply decals to your recently painted HO and O scale model trains, be sure to allow at least 24 hours for the paint to properly dry and set.
• Use warm water to wet the decals with – it easily prepares the glue for setting.
• As a final step, a coat of Dull-Cote seals the decal in place and prevents edging.
By incorporating these tips and preparing in advance, your painting projects for your model trains are far more likely to be successful.
About the Author
Joe Kanooga is a father of two kids, a successful business owner and the author of numerous articles about o scale model trains. Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.
PG 1/60 Gundam Astray Red Frame – 05 – Panel Lines and Decals
|
|
16 Hand Impulse Bags Sealer (SPB16) Category: Impulse Sealers and Cutters $144.97 Item #: SPB16. Easy to use. Simply place bag between seal bars, press down and release. Adjustable timer for different poly thicknesses. Maximum sealing thickness 6 Mil. Customers also search for: Impulse Sealers, Heat Selaers, Poly Bag Selaers… |
|
|
12 Electric Impulse Bag Sealer $74.00 12″ Electric Impulse Sealer These Plastic Bag Sealers provide a strong air and water tight seal~using polyethylene or polypropylene plastic bags. With storage and protecting moisture sensitive equipment against wet environments being the obvious uses, they’re also especially useful for small part storage and organization during car, motor or airplane restorations. Each Plastic Sealer features vari… |
|
|
16 Electric Impulse Sealer For Plastic Bags $121.99 This Plastic Bag Sealer provides a strong air and water tight seal, using polyethylene or polypropylene plastic bags. With storage and protecting moisture sensitive equipment against wet environments being the obvious uses, it is also especially useful for small part storage and organization during car, motor or airplane restorations. It features variable heat control and power saving switch and i… |
|
|
Avery Printable Fabric for Inkjet Printers, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 5 (03384) $9.73 Avery Dennison Dennison Printable Cotton 3384 Printing Media… |
|
|
Skinit Protective Skin Fits Latest Generic 17 Laptop/Netbook/Notebook (University of Alabama Seal) $29.99 Cover your computer with collegiate colors! The Skinit® NCAA® generic 17″ laptop skin offers durable protection that contours to the device, and its vinyl construction makes for easy application and residue-free removal. It’s designed with both the team’s name and logo…. |
|
|
Skinit Protective Skin Fits Latest Generic 15 Laptop/Netbook/Notebook (University of Alabama Seal) $29.99 Skins are a vinyl product that generally fits most devices. Show off your affinity to any association, consumer brand, sports team, college spirit, entertainment. Skinit product has been developed in combination with patented 3M technology. Skinit Skins are designed to be easily removed from any type of electronic device surface without leaving any residue. A special Skinit coating is also applied… |
|
|
U.S. Marine Corps Car Decal / Sticker $3.85 … |
|
|
NRA Guns rifles pistol car bumper sticker 4 x 4 $3.97 BRAND NEW sticker is made of highest quality vinyl with up to 5 year outdoor guarantee. Sticker is die cut around the contour and easily removable. It will not leave behind residue or damage the surface when removed. Sticker can be applied to multiple surfaces, including bumpers, car windows, lockers, mirrors, metal, wood, or any other flat surface. All stickers ship within 24 hours of payment cle… |
|
|
U.S. ARMY Seal car bumper sticker decal 4 x 5 $3.95 Highest quality outdoor grade vynil, UV and Water resistant. The sticker is die cut around the image. Easy application, will stick to all types of flat surfaces – bumpers, car windows, lockers, binders, metal, wood. Directions: Ensure that the surface that you are applying the sticker to is dry and clean. Stick the adhesive backing to the desired surface. Orders are shipped within 24 hours…. |
|
|
Cars (Ultimate Sticker Books) $2.81 Summary:Bring scenes from the latest Disney/Pixar movie to life with stickers of Lightning McQueen and all his friends from Radiator Springs.About the Author:•0Author:DK PublishingIllustrator:0Publisher:DK CHILDRENPublished Date:05/01/2006Format:PaperbackISBN:0756614546#of pages:#N/A… |
