Sanding tiny bumps on Tamiya acrylic cockpit paint question

[arb65912]

Hello,
Here is my first newbie question.
I had a little tiny cockpit part that I brush painted with Tamiya Acrylic paint.
I can see couple very tiny bumps (no idea how to properly mix paint before using it and why the bumps).
Can I sand them off?
If yes, what sandpaper grid?
Thank you!

[Jim R]

Hi Andrzej
The short answer is yes. You must allow the paint to totally dry/cure. This may take a day or so. You then need a very fine sanding stick. I don't know if you used primer or just painted the paint directly onto the plastic. If you didn't use a primer there is more danger of the paint peeling off when sanding. You will need to repaint after smoothing out the surface.
Tamiya acrylic is not a true water based acrylic. It sprays very nicely but most people find it hard to brush paint successfully. I find one of the best paints for brush painting is Vallejo Model Color. A true acrylic. Best results with a few thinned coats.
Jim

THIS is a very helpful thread on successful brush painting. Ron gets amazing results.

[Tim Marlow]

Excellent advice from Jim. Only thing I’d add is to use something like 400 to 800 grit wet and dry, depending on how bad the lumps are, support it on a small block of wood or plastic if possible (stops you rubbing hollows in the surface), and use it wet…..oh, and rub gently

[arb65912]

Hello.

I have to admit that it was such a great nice surprise to hear from Jim and Tim.
I do believe that in any hobby, the big part of it is to interact with others. :smiling:

I just wish I asked here before I started working ..... already made mistakes but better late than never.

Jim R I will follow the advise.
Very fine sanding stick, I get it.
I painted directly on plastic and did not wash the part. It is a tiny part of canopy, I will later take a picture and post.
Since that part is very small, I did not attempt to spray it (My compressor and airbrush is coming tomorrow, boy, it will be something new, never tried it)
I will try Vallejo for small brush painting, and I am sure I will ask again.

Tim Marlow I will try that for sure and I will let you know.
I see what you mean about supporting paper with block of wood.
I have these little like a nail file set and another very fine sticks as well.
I was thinking that 800 would be rough but since I need to get rid of the bumps, I go for it of course.

Thank you again for a super quick response and I will have to keep asking some very simple things... do not get mad at me.