With model assembled, layer of grey prime coat is spray painted. This layer provides a surface grip for the final paint job. Grey is neutral color for most painting schemes, although white primer should be used for certain color hues (ex. yellow, red) to bring out its color brilliance.

Rollover : White engine cowling unit band identifying US Marine VMF-323 was hand-painted by brush using Polly-S Flat White Acrylic (water-based) paint. Multiple coats had to brushed on for good coverage. Although White Enamel (oil-based) paints could also have been used and require less coats, it may also dissolve some of the grey primer layer, thus mixing white and grey paints together. Underwing shell casing ejection holes for 20mm cannons were hollowed out with a drill and XACTO knife.