A friend I know who sings with their chorus will be having a contest in a few months, and they have based their theme on “Get on board and ride the rails”. Well, I suddenly had an idea as to dedicate an actual model train for them, using their logo name and such on the locomotive and the cars. Here’s the idea.
I would most likely need an engine that can be repainted the color and design that I would like it to be. Also, at least 2 or 3 passenger cars would also be repainted to reflect the logo as well. I would somehow need to find an engine that runs well and one that can be repainted. Same for the passenger cars.
I was wondering if anyone here has repainting skills or knows of someone that does that could possibly be able to help me with this. Any ideas would be appreciated.
I only work with plastic so far. #1. remove all clear parts and anything chrome from shell. #2. remove paint [or at least lettering] with a paint remover safe for plastic [Scale Coat makes one] or by sanding with a very fine hobby sandpaper. If you don’t remove lettering, they will sometimes show through as “shadows”. #3. Wash shell with water and diswashing detergent. Get all oils off. #4 Use a good model RR paint and air brush or use a very good brush and paint evenly. If you are not going with a special color, buy Testors in spray cans and spray. #5 put on light and even coats to prevent “blocking out” details and prevetning runs. #6 if you are “two toning”, tape off area. I use Scotch Magic tape. Why? You can see if you have a good “seal” next to the area being painted. Masking tape will let paint “bleed” under. When dry, peel the tape back over its self when removing. To paint the other color. Be sure the first color is extra dry. Tape as above, spray and then remove tape [peeling back over its self as this will prevent pulling first color off]. #7 spray whole shell with Testors Gloscot. Helps the decals to stick. #8 Float on decals #9 use a decal set such as Solvaset. Put on several coats [allowing the first ones to dry]. This will melt the decals into the groves and details of the plastic. #10 After you are satisfied with decal melting, spray with Testors Gloscot if you want shinny toy train look. I shoot it with Testors Dulcot as real tains are never shinny. This seals the decals. #11 install parts removed from shell. #12 enjoy the work you did. [:D]
Chris, If a complete repaint is to much you could also paint just the roofs of the passenger cars, or add a stripe of a color to customize your train. Paint the engines cab roof and steam chest rather than the whole works. Good-luck with your project.
Please don’t take this the wrong way, as I’m only saying it to spare you a lot of wasted effort. It seems like a lot of work for something that’s most likely not going to be appreciated for what it is. What I mean by that is people don’t realize the effort that goes into something like a re-paint. Most just look and say, “oh that’s nice” or “great job”. Then ithey’re off to the next thing. Hours upon hours of blood, sweat, and tears for a few semi-sincere compliments. Worth it? Not in my book. I applaud your intent, but don’t put yourself through all that work.
I’ve done dozens of cars and lots of engines. I like that more than doing scenery. Now Jim is a scenery expert. So I guess it is what you personally like.