1/20 Scale Full Detail Kit Mercedes-Benz Cars AMG F1 2019 Scale Kit AM03

1/20 Scale Full Detail Kit Mercedes-Benz Cars AMG F1 2019 Scale Kit AM03

Attention and proper tools:

Photolithography requires special attention and care. To achieve precise folding without damaging details, it is recommended to use special tools such as tweezers, photolithography shears and bending machines.

Clear and detailed instructions:

The instructions provided with the kit are generally clear enough. However, if you have any questions or difficulties, feel free to consult the online tutorials or ask an experienced modeler for advice.

Tips for impeccable work:

Before starting, carefully read the instructions and familiarize yourself with the different parts of the photo etching.

Use sharp and good quality tools to avoid damaging the material.

If possible, do a test on a piece of scrap photo etching before working on the final piece.

Proceed with calm and patience, taking the necessary time to obtain a precise result.

Some additional tips:

To facilitate bending, you can use a special steel ruler. If the photolithographic etchings are very fine, you can fix them with a little paper tape before processing. To avoid scratching the surface, use round-tipped tweezers. With a little attention and care, you can get excellent results from photolithographic etchings.

After treating the parts with gray primer, I applied a light coat of black gloss paint. This step creates a smooth and uniform surface, ideal for applying decals.

Decals and Textures:

To add visual rhythm and overall realism, I used different textures for the decals. The decals were applied carefully to avoid bubbles or imperfections. The parts of this kit come together very well, so assembly and insertion into the hull was not too complicated.

Steering Wheel:

The steering wheel decals are of high quality and, combined with very accurate printing, greatly enhance its realism.With a little care, you can get excellent results from this kit. Paint, decals and attention to detail will help create a realistic and visually striking model.

It is true that the giant steps in overall product printing are greatly reducing the use of decal treatment products. However, I still recommend using a decal softener. This product helps to make decals softer and more flexible, making them easier to apply and preventing air bubbles from forming.

The F1 kit and realism:

The F1 kit is an essential element to achieve an acceptable level of realism. The carbon fiber texture and its orientation are two aspects that require careful consideration. For best results, I recommend using high-quality decals and applying a matte finish.

Tips for applying decals:

• Before applying decals, make sure the surface is clean and dry.

• Use a decal softener to make decals softer and more flexible.

• Apply decals carefully, avoiding tearing or breaking them.

• Remove any air bubbles with a special tool or a cotton swab.

• Allow decals to dry completely before applying a protective varnish.

• With a little attention and care, you can achieve an excellent result from applying decals.

DECAL FONDO

Creating the Decals for the Underside: To create the decals for the bottom, I referred to reference images of the real car. This allowed me to realize how incredibly detailed and accurate the kit is. The carbon fiber textures and directions are very different, and to achieve a realistic result, it is necessary to create a carefully designed mask.

Creating the Mask:

I used clear sheet and medium pink Tesa tape to make the pre-cut masks.

The clear sheet was used to trace the carbon fiber texture, while the Tesa tape was used to make masks for different areas of the base.

Pre-cutting and Painting:

After creating the mask, I proceeded with pre-cutting the decals. Next, I applied the black gloss paint, creating a uniform base for the application of the decals.

Applying the Decals:

The decals were applied carefully, making sure to align the carbon fiber textures with those of the kit.

Finishing: 

After the decals were completely dry,I applied a protective matte varnish to level out the surface and protect the finished work.

Making the decals on the base was a challenging job, but the end result was very satisfying. The attention to detail and precision in the work resulted in a pleasing sense of realism.

PRIMER

Applying Gray Primer: A Fundamental Step for a Flawless Result

The Importance of Primer:

Applying several light coats of gray primer is an extremely important step for the success of the model. It plays a crucial role in several aspects

1. Checking for Cleanliness: The primer highlights any imperfections or resin residues that could compromise the finish of the model. At this stage, it is possible to correct these defects before proceeding with the actual painting.

2. Checking for Inaccuracies: The primer helps to identify painting errors such as air bubbles or stains, allowing you to intervene and correct them before applying the final color

3. Preparing the Surface: The primer creates a uniform and smooth surface that promotes paint adhesion, ensuring a more durable and long-lasting finish.

Tips for Choosing a Primer:

Strong and Flexible Primer:It is advisable to choose a primer that offers high resistance and flexibility over time.

Neutral Color: I chose gray as a neutral base so as not to influence the final color.

Application Process:

I applied several light coats of gray primer, letting each coat dry completely before applying the next. It is important to avoid applying a layer that is too thick, which could create drips or imperfections.

Dedicating time and attention to the application of the gray primer is essential to obtain a flawless final result. The care of this phase will pay off handsomely in terms of the quality, durability, and beauty of the model.

Verniciature
After the grey primer, I applied a coat of black gloss paint to prepare the silver surface. Black gloss paint creates an even and reflective surface that enhances the shine of the silver.

I used AK products for the spray painting,which I am very happy with.However, similar products can be used without any problems as long as they are of high quality.

In my opinion, the key element to properly realize the model is the shading. The references I consulted did not show completely black spray paint,but rather gradient shades that fade into grey.

The black was only concentrated in the last parts, which probably also complicated taking photos that were useful for the development of the car.

To paint the tires, I follow a method that I learned from other experienced modelers

Removal of printing residue:

First, I remove the printing residue with a file. It is important to sand gently to avoid damaging the surface of the tire.

Cleaning:

After sanding, I wash the tire with running water to remove any dust residue.

Masking:

We tape the tread part to protect it from the paint.

Painting:

Gloss base: I apply a coat of clear gloss paint on the side of the tire. This layer creates a smooth and uniform surface for the application of the decals.

Decals:

After the paint has dried, I apply the decals carefully, avoiding the formation of air bubbles.

Protection:

Once the decals are applied, I apply a second coat of clear varnish to protect and fix them.

Finishing:

Shoe polish: After removing the tape from the tread, I apply a layer of black shoe polish. This product gives the tire a realistic shine and restores the softness typical of a racing product. 

This method of painting tires is simple to follow and allows you to obtain a realistic and visually striking result. The use of specific products and the care taken in each step are essential to achieve a high quality finish.

The front wing was built following all the processing steps illustrated above, including the black shading.

Decals and photoetchings:

To increase realism, I applied carbon fiber decals and sponsor decals. The wing also has small photoetchings that I applied as a last element

Tips:
Follow the instructions carefully, which are extremely clear and precise. Pay attention to the anchor points to ensure correct installation of the photoetchings.

The front wing is an element that, if cared for in detail, can contribute significantly to the realism of the model. The use of decals and photoetchings, combined with accurate painting, allows you to obtain a result of great value.

The rear wing was built by following all the processing steps illustrated previously, including the black shading.

Tips:

Follow the instructions carefully, which are extremely clear and precise. Pay attention to the anchoring points to ensure correct installation.

I applied the decals following carefully the instructions provided. It is important to pay attention to the position and orientation of each decal to obtain a flawless result.

Removing the film:

A critical point is the removal of the transparent film that protects the decals. It is important to do this gently to avoid damaging the decals themselves. In particular, in the case of the stars, it is necessary to remove the film before applying the other decals

Detail and design:

I was very impressed by the detail of the decals on the bottom, which have different textures and designs. This element contributes to creating a realistic and valuable model.

I am very satisfied with the final result obtained with the application of the decals. The attention to detail and the precision of the work done have made it possible to obtain a model of great visual impact.

The rear end was assembled by carefully following the instructions provided. It is important to follow the indicated steps carefully to obtain a precise and safe result.

Part anchoring:

Particular attention was paid to anchoring the parts together. This step is essential to create a solid point capable of supporting the weight of the tires and ensuring the stability of the model.

Tire fixing:

The tires were carefully attached to the rear end, making sure they were centered and aligned.

The assembly of the rear end was successfully completed. The solidity and precision of the work carried out will guarantee the durability and functionality of the model.

Assembly phase:

In this phase, we join the last parts of the aerodynamics before fixing them to the bottom of the model. It is important to work with delicacy and precision to avoid damaging the delicate components

Checking and verification:

Before definitively fixing the parts, it is essential to check their position and alignment. Make sure that all components are correctly assembled and that there is no interference between them.

Fixing to the bottom:

Carefully fix the aerodynamic parts to the bottom of the model, using the appropriate connectors or screws. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the components.

With the final assembly of the aerodynamics, the model is nearing completion. Accuracy and attention to detail in this phase are crucial to achieving a high-quality final result.