Tamiya 1/32 P-51D Mustang

By David Mooney

This is my Tamiya P-51D 'Big Beautiful Doll' complete.

This is a very highly recommended kit, if you can get one for a good price...buy it!

On this build I used the Red Fox Studio set for the instrument and radio panels.

I used Tamiya LP-11 Silver Lacquer and XF-62 Olive Drab for the primary colors.

For my aluminum/metal parts I always I start with a base of Tamiya LP-11 and then use oil washes to change the tones on certain panels. Yes, you can use different paints to do this, but I feel adding tones to the base paint looks more realistic, basically more like filters.

With the LP-11, which is a very tough paint (which can't be said for many metallics), I pick certain panels and give them a very-very light matt coat. This serves two purposes, one to change the reflectivity and to give the surface a 'key' to allow the oils to adhere to.

So, first a standard panel wash is done for the panels to look uniform, then spray the matt coats. The matt varnish (very-very weak) is applied using Mr Rapid Thinners, which I don't think is necessary, but it allows a quicker drying to not affect the LP-11 pigments (which, again, is very tough) then a wash/filter is mixed exceptionally thin with the colour of your choice. I tend to use blues and browns for toning of the metallic areas. I'll have to use this statement which annoys me, but 'I've never had an issue with' LP-11 coming off...but there is always a first time.

There is no need to gloss at any point. The LP-11 gives a nice shine straight away, I mix mine with Mr Levelling thinners which gives a nice smooth shine which also gives a nice wipe-able surface to remove excess panel wash.

Most of the markings (including the chequered front) are painted, but I wish I did the insignia...I was lazy here and I'm kicking myself for being as such.

I hope you all like it!

Tamiya 1/32 P-51D Mustang

By David Mooney

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