Tutorial on How to Airbrush a Model Airplane

Organize the parts of the model plane on a table. Wipe each piece clean with a dry towel, removing any dust or particles that may have accumulated on the model. Sand each model piece to remove the glossy film appearance. Wipe with the towel a second time to ensure that each piece of the plane is clean.

Select a dark color such as black or brown to act as the primer paint. Mix in the paint thinner before inserting the primer into the airbrush. Add enough paint thinner to the primer to give it a thin appearance rather than the thick look that the primer begins with.

Hold the airbrush 6 inches away from the model plane parts. Squeeze the trigger to apply the primer to each piece of the model plane. Spray the paint directly onto each part to avoid dripping, which will lead to streaks. Cover each area lightly and pay special attention to detailed areas such as the cockpit. Set the pieces aside for two hours to allow them to dry.

Clean the airbrush chamber with warm water or fill a second airbrush with the model plane's paint scheme. Hold the airbrush 6 inches away and apply the paint to each section of the model plane. For smaller parts of the model you may want to use a paintbrush to apply the colors. Allow two hours for the paint to dry, then apply a second coat of the color scheme to the model plane.

Wipe the model plane with the dry towel to remove any dust or particles that have collected on the plane. You have the option of applying a clear coat to the plane to protect the color scheme from damage. However, you can also place the model in a display case for its protection.