I started playing Star Wars Armada this December and already have a bunch of ships and squadrons. And I've watched a lot of gameplay. Though I just recently learned about painting and modifications from other videos that have popped up on my youtube feed, and they look amazing.

I was hoping to try my first job of customizing my ship's paintjobs by painting my first imperial-class star destroyer. But I'm not sure how I should start off. What kind of paint should I use? Should I get some other tools like rulers or protractor to make precise lines? What kind of paint brushes should I use? Is it cleaner to use markers instead?

Help! And thank you!

Paints : Acrylic paints such as Games Workshop or Vallejo are probably best. They are water based, non toxic, cover well and dry in 30 mins max. Oil and enamel paints need turps to clean brushes and stink the place out.

Brushes : A size 1 sable brush for general detail work. If doing large models like ISDs a size 3-4 is good for base coating.

Rulers : Why not try some low stick masking tape. General DIY stuff can be used if you stick it to your denim jeans a few times to lower the tackiness. Proper art quality tape is more expensive. Tape off your chosen area apply paint (not too runny as it will creep under the tape). Remove the tape and tidy up the edges.

Low stick masking tape is pretty much garbage imo, leaks a lot. Full out masking tape, or better yet that taimya tape (smaller, easier to work), will do you right.

Never used a rule, but i have traced a template or 2, works better than taping over mixed levels i find.

When I did my Star Destroyer, I primed it with Citadel Chaos Black spray primer, then used their paints for any details I wanted to do (engines namely). For squadrons, I prime them the same way, but use a series of brushes for the painting of the hull and details, ranging from a 0000 to a size 2 for round tip, a size 4 flat for general layering on large flat uniform color surfaces, and a second flat 4 for applying washes. Don't hesitate to ask for tips and feedback either!

Here's the link to where I've posted my work: https://community.fantasyflightgames.com/topic/233742-shadow-squadron-shipyards/

And here's a couple quick tutorials I used for getting started on squadrons.

https://community.fantasyflightgames.com/topic/141299-tie-fighter-painting-tutorial/

https://community.fantasyflightgames.com/topic/141878-x-wing-beginnermasterclass-painting-tutorial-pic-heavy/

Tamiya masking tape is a godsend if you want crisp, sharp lines. I used it for all my SD emblem work so far.

Don't go for the tape with dispenser, its ridiculously overpriced (£7), but the basic tape refill pack is around £2. works a charm.

Also Brushes: I like em bigger, size 1 or so, not winsor 7 as they are short hair. I prefer longer hairs and use them for fighters as well, I feel there is more control overall. Material is tricky, as it depends on mindset. In the US you can't just buy Kolinsky anymore as it is protected under CITES / most importers don't specify origin country for material and it gets turned back, as in some areas that animal is endangered (and it does not do well in captivity). Import as such is restricted heavily, even under personal use. I've heard about some good alternatives, and am currently exploring them (Escoda Versatil for example), but can't provide concrete feedback. I like Raphael 8404s, but I'd also prefer to not use a natural brush if there are potential ethical import issues (that and trapping is not the most humane) .

Thanks guys! Much appreciated! Hopefully I'll be able to get some of this stuff and then have my father help me with the painting, since he's a painter.

Pick a small ship and test concepts...it'll pay big.

Pick a small ship and test concepts...it'll pay big.

What he said!!!!! Start small because then you'll mess up small. The biggins can be a bear though they might seem easy at first. Check out this site: http://www.how-to-paint-miniatures.com

Read a lot of the threads here and take tidbits from every source and develop what works best for you. Don't be afraid to experiment.

Get a cleaner/degreaser like simple green or this: https://www.zoro.com/superclean-cleaner-degreaser-multi-purpose-1-gal-101723/i/G3755692/?gclid=CMrZjPHbp9ECFYg7gQodtFYDNQ&gclsrc=aw.ds

These cleaners will help prep your models, are safe for the plastic and do a great job of erasing your "experiments" when necessary. Be sure to wear gloves (e.g. nitrile) to prevent chemical burns esp. with Superclean.

Spray cans for models are great for base coats.

Patience! Most new painters use way too much paint that is way to thick. 2-3 thin coats is better than one thick because you loose details when you lay on too much.

Post what you create and ask for critiques, lots of great experience here willing to help.