discussion To paint or not to paint

[Martyhh]

I was wondering if some people make models ( airplanes) but don’t paint them. I love putting the models together but am not really into painting. I don’t airbrush, just brush paint. But to me the painting is somewhat a chore.

 

[davecov]

Your models, your choice and if you enjoy making models without painting them, then why not?

A few years ago I made a Matchbox 1/72 Messerschmitt 410 (PK-113) out of the box without using paint, putty or any aftermarket stuff (except for a piece of brass rod to replace a lost pitot tube).

Dave

 

[Steven000]

Well if you like the model unpainted then that's all that matters. In general an unpainted model might show inperfections in the plastic like color difference from the injection, or glue marks etc. But in the end it's all about having a good time.

 

[Andy T]

There used to be a guy post here (sorry, I can't remember his name) that specialised in that kind of "naked" build.

It brings it's own challenges as you can't disguise anything with filler, primer, or paint. Even a slightly errant blob of glue can be spotted, so in ways could be more difficult than the "regular" way.

But if that's what you want to do, why not? As long as you are enjoying the hobby, it's all good


By the way, I'm the opposite. I get the build out of the way as quickly as possible so that I can get on with the painting

 

[pjgtech]

As above, its your model, so you do what you want to do to it, and enjoy it.
I really enjoy the build process too, always liked building stuff, eg: Lego, Meccano, models, and also like taking stuff apart and putting back together again, eg: various bits on cycles, motorbikes, cars, fishing gear, DIY, etc, etc.
But, I now also really enjoy the painting and the weathering, and trying to get the model to look more realistic and less like a toy.
But each to their own and all that.....

 

[LeytonO]

Opposite for me, not so keen on the building, but really enjoy the painting.
Need to clarify that last bit, airbrush great fun, brush not much at all.

Each to their own and as mentioned above its the enjoyment factor that matters.

 

[PaulTRose]

For me it depends on the subject being built

Some I love the building, some the painting, some the weathering

 

[minitnkr]

Back in the 50s/60s most plastic kits were molded in the appropriate colors so no paint required and that's how I built them, but when I began HO scale model railroading & military diorama modeling, painting was required to portray my version of reality to viewers I wished to share my hobby with. Do what gives you joy.