Mixing Zinc Stearate

I just ordered some zinc stearate from Randy Smith. Never used it before. How about some tips from some experienced z-s users on mixing and applying this stuff over silkspan.

Bill Hodges
OTS Rulz

>I just ordered some zinc stearate from Randy Smith. Never
>used it before. How about some tips from some experienced
>z-s users on mixing and applying this stuff over silkspan.
>
>Bill Hodges
>OTS Rulz

Also, several threads talk about using "nitrate" dope. Why nitrate?

>I just ordered some zinc stearate from Randy Smith. Never
>used it before. How about some tips from some experienced
>z-s users on mixing and applying this stuff over silkspan.
>
>Bill Hodges
>OTS Rulz

Just mix it in your thinned clear, add a splash or two of polar gray and go. It sprays better than Talc, so don't be afraid to do so. I would also suggest you not use any type of fillercoat over open bays. Just use clear, it works fine there and is a lot less work.

Before sanding it off, patch and or retouch all the areas where you see a problem. I block sand mine with 320 dry, then give it a second coat and repeat the process. You will be amazed how well it sands and how quickly it fills. Be carefull not to oversand and cut into the silkspan.

The third coat is just Polar gray, and over the entire model. If there are still problem spots at that point, I just address those areas, using putty and fillercoat as needed.

You can even airbrush touch-ups with it. This is good to remember towards the end when you need to fill dings and other bad things that happen after shooting the trim. This is another reason to tint it the color of your blocking coat.