seamfiller

Italieri are due to release their NATO Pilots, Ground Crew & Accessories in 1/32 (IT2511) anytime soon. It's probably going to be similar to their 1/72 set (IT1246). Hannants have it on their wishlist.

Black Sum Models did a few of the Goa'uld ships. Saltire technologies did models of the X-303 (Prometheus), X-304 carrier and a 1/72 X-302A fighter. Misc Models did a 1/48 Ancient Shuttle (aka "Puddle-Jumper"). Most of the above are well out of production but do occasionally show up - brace yourself for the prices when they do as they were never cheap. Admiralty Model Works do a 1/48 and 1/72 Wraith Dart - These are still available from Timeless Hobbies. Have a go with Google - you can find some paper models free to download, if you're interested.

Not many aircraft have a bright, mirror-like chrome finish, so the aluminium would, in my opinion, be more appropriate more of the time. Having said that, the chrome can be burnished with a rough cloth or wire wool to make it less bright, but still glossier than the matt aluminium. They do 2 types of chrome - Chrome (sometimes called Improved Chrome) and Ultra-bright Chrome. It's expensive, I know, but it really is worth practising on a scrap model before you embark on your masterpiece.

Formaskin has long gone, I'm afraid. Here are a few alternatives. The first is BareMetal foil - it's a self adhesive and very thin foil specially designed for use on models. It's not easy to use well and needs a bit of practice, especially on compound surfaces. It's very difficult to remove once on. Available in lots of places. If you want decals, Microscale do a range of metallic sheets and stripes. Available at Hannant's amongst others. Hasegawa do a range of metallic rub-down transfers. I've never used them, nor have I seen any reviews, but they are out there. Search for Hasegawa Trytool finishes, but you may have to get them direct from Japan.

An easily brushed-off finish may not be just down to primer or lack of it. You may have your airbrush too far from the model or the pressure too high or too little thinner all of which can result in the paint being too dry before it even reaches the model.

Due to (mainly) EU regulations on hazardous materials our hardware stores are vastly different to yours. Not only is MEK difficult to get but so to is IPA (isopropyl alcohol). On top of that we are about to lose all sorts of modelling stuff due to import restrictions... Squadron Green & white putties, most of the Gunz Sangyo non-aqueous range, most of the Vallejo range, Mr Surfacer (and all their products) and even Tamiya spray paints are likely to disappear because Tamiya can't (or won't) provide the EU with details of the pigments used.

Johnsons Klear instead of varnish also helps stop self-destructing Airfix decals. Just leave it to dry for a day before immersing in hot water.