How fast does airbrushed acrylic with IPA thinner dry and how long before it cures hard enough to be masked?
Depends on the paint, the amount of thinner, the thinner used, the airbrush pressure and the distance from the model.
Too high pressure and low amounts of thinner mean that the paint can be ‘dry’ before it actually hits the model – leading to a powdery/dusty surface.
Tamiya ‘white top’ IPA is dry within a couple of hours. I always try and leave it overnight before applying masking tape and I will frequently reduce the ‘taki-ness’ of Masking tape (even Tamiya’s tape) before applying – there’s nothing worse than removing tape and a layer of paint coming away with it. a good base coat (e.g. Mr Surfacer) and a grease free surface help. As does keeping the handling of a model with your bare [greasy] fingers to a minimum.
Tamiya Lacquer (Yellow Top) is a bit ‘hotter’ and so seems to ‘grip’ better and stand up to a bit more wear & tear. Again I would leave overnight at least before adding masking tape etc.
Rule of thumb – If I sniff the painted model and can still smell thinners etc, then It’s not ready for the next stage …
I’ll treat myself to the new Airfix Phantom
Not really my genre but I’m quite tempted by this as well, although I’ve been a bit slack recently as work and preparation for the winter has taken precendence. Also looking forward to adding the Airfix Hawker Sea Fury to my collection when it’s available next month