Osprey Publishing

Painting and Finishing Techniques #45 in the Osprey Modelling series

by  By Gary Edmundson (Consultant Editor: Robert Oehler)

Reviewed By  John Tinay, IPMS# 29031

MSRP: $19.95 ISBN: 9781846032639 Website: www.ospreypublishing.com "The idea of painting and finishing a plastic model is to replicate what the actual subject looks like in miniature. The eventual result will have the model look not like a toy, but the real subject from a distance. There are many approaches to doing this, and this book will demonstrate several options." - Gary Edmundson I enjoyed this book and I learned some great techniques for creating effects and finishes that will improve my modeling results. The photos in this book follow the dialogue well and, as the author stated in his Introduction, demonstrated these techniques. I also appreciated that the author gave examples of how he does it. He did not leave me with the impression that his was the only way to accomplish these results. I generally get frustrated when viewing demonstrations or seminars at model shows. I go hoping to learn how to do something, but only get to hear how it was done or see only the final result. This book takes the demonstration aspect seriously by showing and describing the technique throughout the process. Details are not left out and there are photos to cover the process before, during and after. The photos are of excellent quality and capture the points being demonstrated very well. There are a few short chapters prior to the meat of the book. In the introduction, the author shows what kits were used to demonstrate the painting and finishing techniques in this book. The different options of paints available are mentioned, but again the author discusses his choice and why he uses them. The models completed for this book used a multitude of paints and finishes, utilizing the unique advantages of each. There is also a short chapter covering set-up and tools. All painting discussed in this book was performed using a single-action Paasche airbrush which I found refreshing. Nothing fancy here. Also discussed were options and the author's choices for primer, brushes, tape and miscellaneous other modeling necessities. The true subject matter of the book is broken down into two main areas; Painting and finishing model aircraft and, painting and finishing armoured vehicles. Although primarily an automotive builder, I learned techniques that will genuinely change many of my habits. There is not much coverage of the model construction process. As the back-cover of the book states, "Although many modelers can master the basic techniques of construction, it is with the painting and finishing of their kits that many begin to struggle." Some of the many topics discussed and demonstrated in photos are: cockpits and interiors, washes, engines, canopies and clear parts, camouflage, priming, pre-shading, wood grain, chips and scratches, aircraft weathering, track links, wheels, mud and dust, and markings. The final chapters discuss and demonstrate painting of figures and model presentation with more clear descriptions and photos to match. Although an entire book could be written regarding natural metal finishes, I was disappointed to see that the topic was not covered in this book. If you're looking for a great reference with demonstrations of different painting and finishing techniques or looking for the help to take your modeling to the next level, you should consider this book essential. I would like to thank IPMS/USA and Osprey Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.