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Model-Related Handicrafts
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Topic starter
23/08/2026 12:58 pm
I decided to post this in the handicrafts forum, instead of the 1/43 forum, as it is more about the figures.
Early on, when I was just beginning to get motivated to expand my 1/43 group of models, I purchased two sets of figures as a lark. One set is a female mechanics set of eight figures and the other is a set of four carwash females. When they arrived I could only shake my head in wonder, at how on earth I ever expected to paint these tiny things with my anything-but-nimble digits. After a bit of a laugh at myself, I put them away in the cabinet.
Last night, I was putting the finishing touches on a 1/35 figure that is destined to become a bronze sculpture in the end and I brought the ladies out to have a look. I wondered if anyone had been successful painting a small, 1/43 scale figure before. So, gentlemen, any suggestions, before I toss them to the wind?
I thought it best not to post the larger, color versions from the listing.
First up are the carwash ladies:
Last but not least, the lady mechanics:
This topic was modified 2 months ago by GDH
23/08/2026 1:40 pm
All I can suggest is this:
1) Ensure that these "raw" figures are free of grease, dust & dirt; they must be clean.
2) A desk-top hobby light with built in magnify glass will really come in handy.
3) Use FLAT Tamiya paints - "shinny clothes & faces" are NOT realistic!
4) Don't be afraid to color-match or mix colors to achieve the shades & tones you desire.
5) Have GOOD supply of small-size hobby brushes on hand.
23/08/2026 1:49 pm
The older I become the more advice I feel comfortable in giving. Listen (1) to Chris. He has been there, done that and has the photos to back his excellent talent and, thus, advices. (2) Clint Eastwood in his character, 'Dirty Harry' when he says, "A man has to know his limitations".
My only advice is to myself after viewing your terrific presentation here. (3) Buy them already painted.
David Green and Christopher Moroni reacted
Topic starter
23/08/2026 1:53 pm
1 - Can do.
2 - I have one, with 80x magnification.
3 - That makes sense.
4 - Can do.
5 - I have a great set of pin-striping brushes which have worked very well.
6 - You forgot to mention I will need digital transplants for both hands, as well as something to control the sometimes involuntary movement of the aforementioned. Even with the steps you suggested, I doubt it is realistic for me to achieve success with painting such small figures. It would make more sense for me to donate them, or toss them.
Topic starter
23/08/2026 1:55 pm
@perrone1 RE: painted figures - After these arrived last year, that is exactly the direction I chose to take and I haven't regretted it, though my wallet does complain on occasion.
23/08/2026 3:16 pm
@gdh Great, you're all set.... just steady those hands! If not, then - as Tony suggested - "buy them painted." THE PROBLEM IS that many smaller-scale-figures are sold unpainted and painted ones come at a premium. 😖
GOOD LUCK sir!
Topic starter
23/08/2026 5:01 pm
@chris Yes, I know. I'm about 26 figures deep in 'premium' figures, so far, with more on the way, and a very long list. So far, I have only seen one quality 1/43 figure that I like, so I don't see a future wherein I spend more money on 1/43 figures.
But, I thank you gentlemen for your suggestions. Anybody want some unpainted young ladies?
This post was modified 2 months ago by GDH
24/08/2026 3:30 am
You can resell them on Ebay.
24/08/2026 6:14 am
Well, good luck regardless your "P-of-A." Plan of Action. 😉
Topic starter
25/08/2026 1:11 am
@grockwood Yes, that is an option, but for what they would fetch it is not worth the effort. It is much easier to walk into the kitchen and put them in the plastics recycling bin, and I don't have to deal with eBay, which is always a plus.
Tony Perrone and Christopher Moroni reacted
Topic starter
25/08/2026 1:16 am
@chris Thank you, Chris, and after spending an hour masking the Swept Tail RR, I sent the 'ladies' to the recycling bin. If my hands have that much trouble taping up a model car, then painting tiny little lasses seems a bit much. And, no, the RR is still 'in process,' as I needed a break to rest my eyes. I'll follow Tony's counsel, for I do know my limitations, this morning.
Tony Perrone and Christopher Moroni reacted
25/08/2026 6:40 am
"I sent the 'ladies' to the recycling bin, and the RR is still in process; I know my limitations."
I gotcha, one can only do what one can only do. No hurry.... tomorrow is another day. 😉
GDH and Tony Perrone reacted