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I have always used a "dry brushing" method to paint silver on the little lettering on trunk lids, hoods, and side emblems, but I am getting old enough that after I do a couple, I can't hold the brush still anymore for hours. I've been thinking about a platen method, like an inkpad, using a thin dense foam block, glued to a flat backing. In theory, I could paint a very thin coat of silver on the pad, and gently touch the model to apply the paint only on the raised letters and such.

So, has anybody ever tried this? Or for that matter, does anyone know of a product that does the same thing?

I understand your predicament...I was going to suggest a paint pen but I have found the ink doesnt stay on too well.

I think you might need to try a variety of pad surfaces and sizes before settling on something for certain.

I've done the paint pen thing for about a year on the bigger stuff, like window frames, door handles, etc. Sometimes they survive the clearcoat, sometimes I have to redo them after the clear has dried. Everybody here knows I am a fan of Future as a clearcoat, but some of the finer sprays actually are 2 part paint, and have their own clear. I mention it becuse the clearcoat that goes with these paints will dissolve metallic paint pen, and sometimes actually change the color of the paint (I got a really nice bronze once by accident clearcoating gold).

I was thinking about a narrow pad, finger shaped, with a good handle. Maybe.

I use a toothpick for some of the fine detail work -

There's an idea I hadn't thought of. With enough magnification, I could use a sharpened toothpick for this stuff. I'll try it when the weather clears and repost! Thanks, David.

I have a similar problem; left hand is shaky (the one I hold things in) so I regularly end up making a mess of things. I have a "third hand" with a magnifying glass but for some reason, when doing small details both hands feel they must work together :doh: Let us all know how this experiment goes!

You got it, Sarge.

I'm waiting to see what works too. Got the same problem.
Charlie

I always use a silver Sharpie for fine details

Toothpick or Sharpie for me.