On my current project, I have had issues with certain spray can paint qualities. I am relatively experienced with using spray paint to repaint old Athearn and similar models, once I remove the old paint scheme. However, some newer products in some colors have shown up that seem to have a much thicker viscosity- such as the yellows of Krylon and Rustoleum, particularly those which state "primer and paint in one" on the label.
Even with a light gray or white primer base coat, some of these spray out much thicker- resulting in line ridges where I masked for color separation or a build up of paint where mold lines are rendered less distinct- such as access hatch doors on the sides of diesels.
This is not limited to just light colors- as I have also noticed this increased thickness with some medium colors as well. In the case of the yellow, I had to start over and use a Tamiya model paint over a white flat primer, as the model paint is finer in terms of the paint viscosity. I hate to spend $7 on a small model paint can at a hobby or craft store when I get a regular sized spray can for under $4 at Walmart.
I do airbrushing on occasion, but there you also have a quantity versus cost issue, although the paint application process is more controlled; however that is a separate matter.
Most of the spray paint is a gloss enamel and this may account for the greater thickness, but I seem to not have had that problem before the primer/paint combo spray products appeared.
Cedarwoodron
Yeah, the paint and primer combo isn't generally good for models, but I have learned to go extra light /multiple coats when using it. I won't say this issue is limited to Rustoleum, but that's what it sound like your shooting and it tends to have this issue.
Generally, I've found Krylon has better, more consistent performance out of the can. At least around here, Krylon just doesn't seem to have as many of the color choices that Rustoleum does, though, so I work with what I need.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
I use Krylon when I can find the color and finish that I want then default to Rustoleum when I cant get the Krylon. I have not noticed the issue you describe. When I spray I make sure to spray in short bursts and move the can across the surface for a thin layer. After it is dry, another layer may be in order, and I am ok with the results.
Bear "It's all about having fun."
You can still get model paints in small cans that are going to be better than hardware store paints, but they are harder to come by.
I, too, prefer Krylon over other brands for paint quality. I'll still use Rustoleum for their textured products, but I expect those to go on heavy. They're not for fine models with detailed surfaces anyway.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
MisterBeasleyYou can still get model paints in small cans that are going to be better than hardware store paints, but they are harder to come by.
Check on line retailers for the model RR spray cans. This is what I searched on Model Train Stuff / MB Klien, only 26 items, but ther must be morehttps://www.modeltrainstuff.com/search?search_query_adv=spray+paint
Walthers shows 967 items in my search therehttps://www.walthers.com/search/mode/list?q=spray+cans+paint
Krylon Fusion is a good paint can. Designed for plastic and not too thick. They also have a line of hobby paints in small cans; mostly gloss finish. I can not remember what they are called
George In Midcoast Maine, 'bout halfway up the Rockland branch
I almost exclusively use the Tamiya spray cans for spraying. They are military colors, but usually you find a color close to what you need. For example their "Red Brown" (I think that's what it's called) looks to me like a good Boxcar / Tuscan Red.
Hello all,
cedarwoodron...particularly those which state "primer and paint in one" on the label.
The entire point of these types of paints IS to cover-up irregularities; fine details for us modelers.
When scratch building rolling stock from wood I prefer these "prime and paint in one" types. It hides the grain detail for a smooth finish.
I have had good luck with house brands from Lowe's; Valspar, True Value; Do It Best, along with the non "paint and primer in one" Rust-Oleum.
Yes, spraying several light coats does help preserve the fine details of some models.
What I have found equally helpful is to warm the cans in a hot tap water bath.
Put the can(s) in something deep enough to submerse them in hot tap water. Allow them to warm. This might take a few changes of water.
Shake the cans periodically while they warm.
Again, spray several light coats rather than one thick one, allowing the paint to "dry to the touch" between coats.
If masking, allow the first color to cure completely; typically 24-hours, before masking and painting.
The thicker "Blue" painters tape will create a thicker line at the separation of the colors. I use the thinner "Green" type for better results.
Hope this helps.
"Uhh...I didn’t know it was 'impossible' I just made it work...sorry"