Details: Written by Josh Baakko; Category: Diesel Projects; Published: 26 February 2019; Hits: 1833

Painting Fine Mesh Grills (HO & Smaller)

How I painted the Fine Mesh etched grills for my SD50F

Just showing you an interesting way to get a good paint coat on fine mesh grills. Very useful for HO & smaller scale, scratch or kit builders.

During the process of building my Kaslo HO Scale SD50F, I realized I needed a way to paint the fine mesh grills included in the kit. Kaslo says to paint them before install, so this is what I chose to do.

I picked up two of these Elmer's "Painters" from Wal*Mart one black, one silver, for detail use on my models. I use the silver to do the window frames on many units. The black got used here. They also have a other basic colors, but RR specific colors, such as BNSF green, or Santa Fe blue will not be there.

To paint, you'll need a small piece of toilet paper, or paper towel. First paint both sides of the grill completely, they should go from looking like the 1st pic, to looking like the 2nd pic below. Be sure to leave room to pick it up, you'll need to later.

Now place the painted grill on top of the paper, and blow on it, quick bursts works well. One or two bursts and you should have a majority of the openings clear. Pick up the grill carefully, and blot it lightly with the paper. Blot lightly until you remove all (or almost) all left over filled openings. You might have one or 2 filled openings, unless you're quick.

Let the grill Dry & install (now if I could only get the CA to co-operate with me!).

Happy painting!