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Build Revell Models With Pro Finishes
Created by Marcelo Skaba
You’ll learn the build steps that make Revell kits look clean and “scale-real”: controlled dry fitting, true solvent-weld gluing, invisible seams, and finish prep. Then you’ll apply clear parts safely, lay decals without silvering, and add a first realistic weathering wash without making a mess.
Requirements
- Safe handling of hobby knives, sanding tools, and solvents (basic ventilation awareness)
- Ability to follow kit instructions and identify part orientation/alignment points
- Basic part removal with sprue nippers and basic cleaning/washing (already mastered)
- Basic familiarity with painted vs unpainted surfaces and letting coats cure
What you'll learn
- Dry fit assemblies to identify fit blockers and create a controlled glue-up plan.
- Use liquid polystyrene cement to solvent-weld styrene seams cleanly using capillary action and proper clamping.
- Eliminate visible seams by selecting appropriate fillers and sanding through a correct grit progression without destroying detail.
- Use primer strategically to reveal surface flaws and apply thin coats that preserve fine detail.
- Handle, fit, and glue clear parts without fogging, crazing, or stress damage.
- Apply decals on the correct surface finish, use setting/softening solutions, and seal decals for a painted-on look.
- Add a subtle, realistic pin wash and clean it back safely for controlled weathering.
Learning path
7 modules • Each builds on the previous one
1
Precision Dry Fitting Before You Glue
Learn how to test-fit Revell kit parts and subassemblies to spot fit issues, alignment problems, and interference before any adhesive. You’ll practice marking contact points, checking symmetry, and planning clamps/tape so the final glue-up is controlled.
1 video10 min
2
Polystyrene Cement: Chemical Welding Explained
Understand why liquid polystyrene cement ‘melts’ and fuses plastic, when to use it vs CA (super glue), and how to control capillary action to avoid mess. Includes curing stages, joint strength, and why some glues fog clear parts.
1 video8 min
3
Seam Filling and Sanding Grit Progression
Learn how to eliminate fuselage/body seams using filler options (sprue goo, putty, CA as filler), and how to sand from leveling grits to polishing grits without destroying nearby detail. Emphasizes checking work under strong light and re-priming as needed.
2 videos8 min
4
Primer Purpose and Application Basics
Learn what primer actually does in model building: improve paint adhesion, unify surface energy, and reveal flaws (especially seams). You’ll compare primer types (lacquer/acrylic), learn light-coat technique, and use primer as a diagnostic step before color coats.
1 video5 min
5
Clear Part Management: Canopies and Windows
Learn how to keep clear parts crystal-clear: handling, polishing minor scratches, masking for painting, and choosing the right adhesive to avoid fogging. Includes sequencing: when to install clear parts and how to protect them through priming/painting.
1 video7 min
6
Decal Application and Gloss Surface Prep
Learn how to apply water-slide decals cleanly by preparing the surface (gloss coat to prevent silvering), using setting/softening solutions, and sealing afterward. Includes positioning, handling, and troubleshooting wrinkles, tears, and trapped air.
2 videos12 min
7
Introduction to Weathering for Realism
A controlled, beginner-friendly weathering toolkit: panel line washes, dry brushing, chipping, exhaust/soot effects, and pigments. Emphasizes subtlety, reference photos, and building effects in light layers so the model looks used—not messy.
1 video5 min
Start Learning
Begin your learning journey
Modules7
Duration52 min
Science-backed learning
In-video quizzes and scaffolded content to maximize retention.
Key concepts
Precision Dry Fitting For Alignment And Gap PreventionSolvent-Weld Bonding Vs Super Glue BondingCapillary Action For Clean Cement ApplicationChoosing Seam Fillers (Water-Based, CA, Solvent Putty)Using Primer As A Flaw-Revealing CheckpointSanding Grit Progression And Wet Sanding ControlRescribing Lost Panel Lines After SandingClear Part Risk Management (Brittleness, Fogging/Crazing)Safe Adhesives For Canopies And WindowsDecal Silvering Prevention With Gloss CoatsDecal Setting/Softening Solutions And Hands-Off TimingSealing Decals With Clear Coats And Choosing Final SheenBeginner Weathering With Pin Washes And Cleanup TechniquePacing And Patience To Avoid Finishing Mistakes