The process of building a model rocket is as much fun as launching one. The ins and outs of constructing it properly make for a successful launch. And the construction process goes beyond calculations and adjusting the tail fin. Design is equally important. Let’s start off by learning how many layers of primer you need for a model rocket.
What Is Primer?
A primer is a base coat used to help treat a surface before applying a topcoat. The prep time for model rockets is equally important. Priming ensures better adhesion of paint to the surface, increases paint durability, and provides additional protection for the material being painted.
Primer isn’t the outermost durable finish, but it does improve the filling and binding properties of the material underneath. Primer works on porous surfaces as well as wood and concrete. For example, you would need a primer for building a balsa wood model. (Plus, balsa wood is a great material for building model rockets.)
What Type of Primer Do You Need?
You need a special type of primer for rocket painting and finishing. Use a sandable primer sold in automotive stores in the auto body repair section. Then, gather all your supplies together. Aside from the items that come in the model rocket kit, you need a sander too.
For that first primer layer, use a medium grit sanding sponge. Depending on the size of your model, you may need to purchase several cans of primer at once. It’s easy to use an entire can on only one section of the model before even getting to other areas.
How Many Layers Do You Need?
You should apply at least three coats of primer to your rocket. Start sanding most of the primer off between each coat with 220 or 400-grit sandpaper. As you sand the primer off, you will not be able to sand away the primer that fills up the wood grain and tube spirals.
When you start to apply the final coats of paint, you’ll be applying the paint to a completely smooth surface. After applying the primer and sanding in between, place one final coat and do not sand that one away.
How Do You Apply the Paint?
Once you’ve let the primer set for a little bit, you need to prepare the paint. Be sure to paint your rocket in an open area because the fumes are hazardous to human health. You want them to dissipate quickly. It’s also a good idea to apply the primer in an open area.
Hold the rocket about 12 inches away from the spray can. Don’t try and get a perfect-looking rocket in one coat. You’ll end up applying too much paint in one setting, and then it will all start to run. Apply several light coats until you get a glossy finish.
As you’re searching and buying model rockets online, be sure to stop by our AC Supply site. We’ve got a wide collection to narrow down your favorite option. We know how many layers of primer you need and all the other details related to model rockets.