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How to Make Miniature Models Look Like They Are Glowing

Hobbyists have been building models since before World War II. Model hobbyists derive satisfaction from building replicas of real-life objects or building their own unique creations. Painting miniature models with certain kinds of paint will make them look as if they're glowing. It may be difficult to achieve the exact effect you're looking for. Paints have limitations, but with a little creativity and effort, you can make your models look as if they're glowing.

Things You'll Need

Paint
Paintbrushes

Instructions

- 1
  Select paints appropriate for your project. If you'd like your model to literally glow, choose a glow-in-the-dark paint. For other glowing effects, select fluorescent paints. A variety of colors are available.
- 2
  Clean the model with warm, soapy water. Dry the model thoroughly with a clean cloth. Apply a thin layer of primer and allow the primer time to dry.
- 3
  Paint large areas first. Dip your paintbrush into the paint you are using. The paintbrush does not need to be heavily coated with paint; a small amount will suffice. Apply a slight amount of pressure and use broad strokes, or as broad as the miniature model will allow. Allow the paint to dry. Inspect the paint job to ensure that it is not transparent and that no brushstrokes are visible. Apply a second coat if necessary.
- 4
  Paint finer details when the first application of paint has dried. Use a smaller brush. Dip your paintbrush into the paint. An even smaller amount of paint will suffice for the detailed areas. Remove excess paint from the paintbrush by rolling it over a paper towel or newspaper. Apply paint carefully using small strokes.

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