Airbrushing and Finishing Scale Models Book Review
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | September 2008 | Title | Airbrushing and Finishing Scale Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Brett Green | Publisher | Osprey Publishing |
| Published | 2008 | ISBN | 978-1-84603-199-1 |
| Format | 192 pages, hardcover, spiralbound | MSRP (USD) | $39.95 |
Review
Osprey has been publishing quite a few nice modeling 'how-to' titles dedicated primarily to specific subjects. This new title that arrived today significantly raises the bar on modeling references. I can think of a few other publications that have turned out similar quality material for the modeler, but at much higher prices.
This title is part of Osprey's Masterclass series and is not designed to be a shelf reference. While the cover is hard, the pages are spiral bound so that the book will sit flat on your workbench on any page, allowing you to follow along with the material presented. This is a great touch as you won't have to hold the book open with one hand while modeling with the other.
This title covers painting and finishing of your modeling projects and has been put together by author (and Hyperscale webmaster) Brett Green. The title features not only Brett's modeling, but also the work of Chris Wauchop, Mick Evans, and Andrew Judson. The table of contents explains the path taken by the author to help you become a better modeler:
- Fundamentals of the airbrush
- A brief history of colour
- Getting started with your airbrush
- Basic airbrush techniques
- Painting and finishing aviation models
- Painting and finishing armour models
- Painting and finishing other models
- Resources
As you page through this title, you won't find the same old tutorials that have been presented in numerous how-to modeling books in the past. This is a well-illustrated title that walks you through those painting projects where many modelers fear to tread - bare metal aircraft, high-luster automotive finishes, and complex camouflage patterns. Then there are all of those decals that must be applied where even one silvered decal can ruin the whole project. The author will walk you through the steps and show you how to achieve the same results that the master modelers do for themselves.
This is one title you must get for your workbench. Until you get the knack of certain techniques, you can always have the author's help within arm's reach and help you through any challenges or apprehensions you might face in the final stages of your project.
My sincere thanks to Osprey Publishing for this review sample!