Model Aircraft Airbrush Tutorial - Airfix 1/72 Harrier GR9

In this video I go through a simple and effective method of painting scale model aircraft. It is very straightforward and creates a great effect. The model I am using is the Airfix 1/72 Harrier GR9.


The steps I use are as follows.

1. Assemble then main fuselage and wing sections and mask canopy with modelling tape. Ensure any seams/joints have been filled with putty then smoothed with sand paper. Any components such as nozzles and weapons are kept separate at this stage. These will be painted separately and attached to the model at towards the end - this may disagree with the steps in the instruction manual but it makes painting much easier.

2. Cover the model with a layer of black.

3. Add a layer of white splodges. Try to space them evenly.

4. Add a the final layer. This is the final colour of the model. In my video I have gone for sky grey. Be careful not to add too much at once as this will simply cover the pre-shading added in steps 2 & 3. Equally, ensure enough is added so that no black or white is visible.

5. Add a layer of cote/varnish to create a surface for the decals to adhere to. This also creates a protective layer which prevents the wet decals smudging the paintwork.

6. Add Decals.

7. Paint Additional Components.

8. Optional. Apply humbrol black or dark grey wash to panel lines. Remove any excess with a paper towel or cotton bud.

9. Touch up or add any necessary additional paint to the model using a brush.

10. Add final components to the model.

11. Add final layer of cote/varnish. Once this is dry remove the canopy masking and the model is complete!