RE: Automotive paint
Stevenmax, I am the same way with this process. I pretty much asked the paint guy what to do and what to mix and it's worked so far! I do have Nelson Thinner, not sure if this is the same stuff you are takling about because I got if from the auto paint store. Definatlely use the right thinner for the job. This thinner I have is powerful so be careful with it, but it makes the job so much easier! More pics to come once I shoot the intermediate blue.
Oh and I went back to harbor freight today and got a spray gun stand. I also decided to try the $10 airbrush set as well. Maybe I'll try a little detail work or some weathering too on this model with this. I am so pleased with their HVLP spray gun, Ifigured for $10, what the heck!