I have a number of questions about working with resin kits:

  1. What do I cut resin parts from their sprue with?
  2. Should I prime the metal parts before I paint them?
  3. Should I clean the metal parts before I paint them?
  4. Can I paint directly onto the Resin?
  5. Should I paint the railings before I put them up?
  6. Should I paint the ship before I put the railings up?
(Randall Shoker)

1. I use Xuron cutters. I have all three sizes: Large, small, and the long-nosed. I'd say I use the small one the most. I've used them to cut very fine detail parts off the sprues without mishap. Then I take an X-Acto knife to trim the excess.

2, 3, 4. I would say that you should first wash all of the resin parts to remove any release agents left over. I use Ivory dishwashing soap (clear) for cleaning. Question: Are the resin parts on sprues ? I've never clean etched parts, unless I had to solder parts together and use a lot of flux.

If you are doing any masking I strongly recommend that you prime all parts. The last thing you want is to lift-up the paint when removing the tape. As for painting directly on the resin, you can do it, but the risk of lifting paint is much higher.
{John Sheridan}

Usually best to cut parts from sprue with a razor saw and then sand smooth. Resin and metal parts should be thoroughly cleaned before painting. Resin parts I scrub with hot water and dishwashing soap, metal parts I clean with alcohol. Priming is not essential but can be helpful. Definitely paint the railings off the ship, and paint the ship before installing the railings. If the ship has brass rod for fabricating masts and such, it should be roughed up slightly with fine sand paper or the paint will chip very easily.
{Larry}
Back?