FBR querries

[TexasGal]

So this isn't just for me.  I want to hear other people's ?s on this since I am considering it (and attempting on an old McD bait body).  How do you make the paint smoother?  What do you seal yours with? 


Anyone else's questions are welcome, since I likely am not thinking of a few. 

[kittybethy]

I would suggest sanding it down to make the paint smooth!

 Also, I seal it with Mod Podge!

[Colorscapesart]

Thin paint, applied in multiple layers really works well.  Also make sure it is complete dry before adding additional layers.  A lot of people seal with good ol' Modge Podge, but I adore Testors Dullcote spray (at the hobby store).

[Lina]

I would suggest sanding it down to make the paint smooth!

you're sanding the ponies?

personally, i learned that some colors work better for FBRs, and some work not so well. usually the ones with many pigments are best for a start, like black. yellow is pretty tough, unless you got a good one... (and colors like yellow work better if you mix a little white into it)

[daizysellers]

personally, i learned that some colors work better for FBRs, and some work not so well. usually the ones with many pigments are best for a start, like black. yellow is pretty tough, unless you got a good one... (and colors like yellow work better if you mix a little white into it)

Ugh, I discovered with my last pony that I should have put a "primer" layer of white down before my yellow because I thought I would NEVER get enough layers to really make my yellow solid without having "see through" spots.

I use really thin layers (sometimes 3-4 and sometimes 5-6) depending on the color.

[KiwiSquirtBottle]

I know some people sand the pony lightly before they paint them, to give a rougher surface so the paint sticks better and doesn't try to bead up. I personally use make up sponges to help avoid brush strokes. I use cheap dollar store foam ones and usually cut them in half or in to thirds as I usually don't need a whole sponge for 1 colour, and because I'm cheap sometimes.

[MrsDavis]

Yes, primer is soooo important with lighter colors. Sponges is a great idea, kiwi. What I see with most of the poorly done FBR's is that they slapped the paint on to thick. Dab some of the paint off the brush, like onto your palette, or a paper towel, and put down relatively thin layers. And ALWAYS ALWAYS wait for your layers to dry completely, or they'll be tacky.

[Tinker]

I have the hardest time keeping my FBRs smooth. After reading here I started using white primer for light colored FBRs and using an old cotton sock to gently rub bumps away. I love using makeup brushes not just for smoothing, but to intentionally create a fine stucco texture. Type of paint matters as well. I started with student grade acrylics and eventually I had to suck it up and started using a higher quality paint.