Hello mturpin013,

Concerning the paint I am using on this model, I was going to buy a whole new set of paints according to the colours required but on this occasion I am using what I have on the shelf. I have used a white automotive spray primer as seen in the pictures. The lower part of the hull will be red oxide which is also an automotive spray primer. The upper hull, deck and superstructure I will use spray acrylic colours which I already have.

On future boats I think I would prefer to use spray or brush-on acrylic paints. No reason really, just my preference.

Greg 👍

Hello flaxbybuck,

Concerning varnishing after painting. I do have a mind to varnish but I was going to wait until I had finished the top coats and make my decision then. But I will be varnishing where I have applied decals.

Greg 👍

Hello Flaxbybuck,

Thank you. That is a good point concerning damage to the paint finish.

Greg 👍

I have a way to go before the launch is finished but I am certainly looking forward to the first time out on the pond.

Greg 👍

As my hand progresses to heal I have had the opportunity to spray paint the hull, deck and superstructure of the Ministry of Defence police launch. The hull is in red oxide and black with white at the waterline. In the next stage a coach line will be added to the upper hull. The deck is NATO green with white around the edge. The superstructure is white. Following painting the cabin/cockpit I glazed all the windows. In the finishing process the next step is to secure the superstructure to the deck but before that is done I will add to the roof and deck the additional fittings and decals that I have obtained. Most of the fittings I have purchased I have yet to receive but two I have already have been painted so they are ready to be fitted.

I manged to obtain a set of decals for the badge of the MOD police which I am very pleased with. These I found on Etsy and came from Spain. the following fittings I hope to be delivered within the next week are.

Instrument panel decals

Resin cast door

Resin cast lifeboat canister

Resin cast DECCA style radar dome

Resin cast navigation lights

Police markings decals

Blue emergency beacon lights

The two fittings that I have ready are a searchlight and a flag staff. I will also fit a radio communications antenna.

As yet I have not found a suitable flag. What I would like to get is an MOD police ensign which can be seen in pictures of the actual launch but at the moment I have drawn a blank.

fittings I forgot to mention that are yet to be fitted are the stanchions and handrail.

I am really enjoying this project and look forward to starting the British civil fireboat that I have planned as my next boat. Along with, of course, the Wee Nip and Bella sailboats I have yet to start. 🙄

Greg 👍