Getting back into modeling and wondering if you guys could give me some help regarding painting. First off should I paint the pieces while they are still on the spur. Do you have any suggestions on were I can go and read up on it. Any help would be appricated.

Thanks

This question is asked very often and more often than not, there isnt one straight answer. Its always about your matter of preference. Some of the top modellers on this site still paint them on the sprues but ive seen good quality kits from other modellers where painting was done after assembly...usually with an airbrush.

I personally prefer painting it after assembly as i do have an airbrush. Even for the small parts that uses a paint brush, i sometimes do construct it first then paints as i usually sand the excess parts off first. If there was paint on it, it would be rubbed off.

Best way to find out is trial and error.

Try checking out the painting section on this site....lotsa good stuff there.

Painting Features

As Jeremy has stated, it is a matter of trial and error and what works for you. There is no right or wrong.
Personally, painting parts on the sprue, doesn´t work for me. When these parts are removed and cleaned up, they have to be repainted. Then if there is a bad fit, putty is needed and even more re-painting is needed. I find assembling as much as possible, easier.

I dont know if you have an air-brush or not, but if not, I recommend using a spray can with a suitable colour, then paint the small details. Thats what I did when starting out!