Painting Tips from Jim Myers

Here is an inside look into painting RC bodies by Jim Myers of Winning Edge Designs.  

Today Im going to take you on a step by step Journey through the tedious proccess of turning this JConcepts package into a movable work of art. Click the jump below and hold on!

Four Bodies should do nicely, two Manta, a Truth and a Dare, just seems right for the start of this project.

I opened up the packages for inspection, there it is, new sticker sheet, instructions that should always be read to look for new information that will help with the prep and painting process and more.

Always wash every body inside and out for best adhesion, since mold release and skin oils anywhere on the body can affect the durability, even when transferred by the painter from one side to the other. This is true no matter what type of paint you use. Then I scuff the bodies with scotch-brite for added adhesion, but only after the window masks are on so they don’t get scratched. Also you should be aware that chrome areas, if any should not be sanded, unless you are after a brushed aluminum look after spraying in the chrome.

Black first, for details and shading for more depth. Then any body getting pearl or metal flake gets that in the following steps, before main color, but after shading and a wipe with a lint free towel to remove the heaviest overspray.

Some paint applied, but only about half way complete. I allow for at least 30 minutes dry time between coats, even for backing coats, using a combination of Pactra, Tamiya, Spaz Stix, Alclad and Auto Air brands.

The completed bodies, with overspray protection film removed, window masks removed and using my photo studio set up for my final paint pics. These 4 bodies represent a full days work, taking into account masking time, painting, prep, etc. roughly about 11-12 hours for the 4 bodies in total.

Now they are ready for trimming and mounting in their respective trucks, then it’s time to give them the beating they were designed for, but they will take it while looking good! 🙂

Jim
W.E.D.
wedjim.com