Apologies if this has been asked before but this is my first attempt at figure painting.

When painting figures, in my case I have 1:32 Airfix US Infantry multipose plastic figures, do you attach all the extra equipment like rifle, ammo pack, water bootle, back pack, holster, helmut etc to the figure unpainted or is it better to paint these items separately and then glue to figure when finished.

I also have a similar question about the face and hands or flesh colour parts, paint separately or attached to body first.

Cheers,
Ethan

I prefer to paint all the equipment separately and glue them to the figure, when finished. That way I eliminate the risk of ruining the uniform paintjob, when painting the backpack or a granate.

Some glue all items to the figure and then paint it. It's all a matter of what you're comfortable with.

Personally leave all the kit off and glue on with CA after. If flesh parts are separate leave them till later as well.

HTH

Andy

I build the entire thing and then paint it, perhaps leaving off an arm or whatever if there is an awkward spot to paint. I find this method works best for 'blending' everything together, although a small brush is required for drybrushing!

I'd try out both ways and see what you feel most happy with.

Cheers mate and happy painting.

I'll assemble any body parts (except the head which is easier to paint separately) that look like they might need filler. I leave of any equipment and paint those parts as individual pieces.

Until coming to this site I used to paint everything seperately until I started seeing the work some people did here. That changed everything. Now I fine it a lot easier to build the figure then paint, especially when painting camo. Gear I usually paint seperate.

I paint gear separately, and add it later with CA as well. It works well for me, but we all have our own styles. Whatever feels right to you is what you should stick with.

Mike

I assemble everything and prime it first. Then paint. The only thing I left off is the head or hands if it's applied.

I know it is more difficult to paint, but there is an advantage to it. I felt I can study the shadow and hightlight to the figure and use the color accordingly.

I also spent most of the time painting head because it's the focal point. I'm not too big on whites in the eye balls unless situation calls for.

WC

Thanks for the excellent feedback. So there is no right way or wrong way but I will try painting separately first.

This maybe another silly question but when painting bits like the water bootle, back pack and holster do you ever leave them on the sprue, just for easier handling?

No question is silly on this forum. Ethan, you should take the off the sprue. I know it's easier to handle but later you have to come back and clean the seams and touch up the spot. This to me will be more difficult to do than just attach them on to the body.

WC

ok thats good to know, cheers