Sanding and Smoothing Model Parts with Air Nozzle Medium

Quick Answer

For smooth model surfaces before painting, sand in progressive grits and use the Air Nozzle Medium to blow away dust without disturbing fine details.

Step-by-Step Sanding and Smoothing Process

1. Start with a coarse grit: Use 400-grit sandpaper to remove mold lines and large imperfections. Work in a circular motion and keep the part wet to reduce clogging. Check that all visible seams are gone before moving to the next grit.
2. Progress to finer grits: Switch to 600-grit, then 800-grit, and finish with 1000-grit or higher for a smooth base. Always sand in one direction to avoid swirl marks. Wipe the part with a tack cloth between grits to see your progress clearly.
3. Clean the surface with the Air Nozzle Medium: Attach the Air Nozzle Medium to your Spray Gun Standard Class and use short bursts of air to blow away dust from crevices and recessed areas. Hold the nozzle at a slight angle and keep a safe distance so you don't accidentally spray moisture or oil from the compressor.
4. Inspect under strong light: Shine a lamp at an angle across the surface to reveal any remaining scratches or uneven spots. Repeat sanding and cleaning if needed. A perfectly smooth surface should look matte and uniform with no shiny low spots.
5. Wipe with a lint-free cloth: After air cleaning, do a final wipe with a lint-free cloth or tack cloth to pick up any static-charged dust that air alone might miss. Avoid touching the surface with bare fingers; skin oils can repel paint.

Product Fact

• Air Nozzle "Medium" (39101): This accessory converts your spray gun to a medium nozzle size and is only suitable for the Spray Gun Standard Class (item no. 39101 or 39201). If you own one of those spray guns, this nozzle gives you a dependable way to blow away sanding residue without switching tools.