🔧 Scale Model Building Tips

Use RB Productions 300mm panel line scribing tool with a 0.2mm needle for fine lines. Hold the tool at 15° angle and scribe along the mold line with light pressure. For deeper lines, make two passes. Always sand with 400-grit paper afterward to remove burrs. This method works best on Tamiya and ICM injection-molded parts where panel lines are shallow.

Arma Hobby photo-etch bending jigs use 1mm slots for precise alignment. Place the etched part in the jig, align with the slot, and bend gently using a 100g spring-loaded pliers. Apply light pressure for 2-3 seconds. This technique prevents kinking on delicate parts like ICM exhaust stacks and Eduard cockpit details.

After each use, flush Iwata airbrushes with 100% Iwata Clear Solvent. Use a 1.5mm needle tip with 30psi air pressure. Clean the needle with a soft cloth, then run water through the system. Store the airbrush in a dry place with a desiccant packet to prevent clogging from Tamiya enamel residue.

Tamiya tape adheres better to glossy surfaces but can be difficult to remove. Apply with a Tamiya 100mm squeegee at 100g pressure. Kabuki tape is better for textured surfaces but requires a 2mm squeegee. Use Tamiya tape for decal placement on Arma Hobby plastic and Kabuki tape for weathering on ICM metal parts.

Use 0.4mm Evergreen styrene sheet for fine details. Cut with a hobby knife and X-Acto blade at 45° angle. Sand with 800-grit paper before painting. For curves, use a 1/4