I'm a noob and I want to eventually paint 1/9 busts. But I realize that I have to practice first.

What scale should I start with? Any model recommendations for noobs?

Hi Brian,
I would suggest that if you want to paint the 1/9th scale busts then that's a great place to start. The most important thing for a beginner when choosing a first figure is pick something you like it's much easier to paint a figure you like than one you aren't to interested in, and your much likelier to do a better job on it. I would also suggest going with a company that has nice casting it will be easier to paint. Young and pegaso busts to name a few have fantastic castings but they aren't the only ones. Find a bust you like then have a look in the review section to see what it's like.
And lastly don't be shy showing your work and asking for help it will help you improve a lot faster than going it alone, everyone here is always happy to help.

Andrew.

I second Andrews advice.
It might be worth buying a medium (model strip or some oven cleaner)to strip the paint to try a few attempts on one piece rather than buying 5 busts and getting better each each time.
I'm afraid it is just practice that will bring you on. there are loads of articles on painting styles here also.
And as Andrew says there are thousands of excellent painters here on the forum so show your work and you will be told honstly where your strengths are and where your challenges are.

Brian,

Just a couple of suggestions:
- Try to go for a 75 or 90mm figure; I find these a good compromise between small and large figures.
- Start with well-sculpted figures. They are easier to paint. Usually, these are also expensive, but the result will look better because of it.

Just my 2 cents.
Good luck, and have fun.

Cheers,
Adrian

Hey Guys,

Thanks for the advice! I was going to buy some cheap figure I wasn't interested in...but I think I'll take the plunge and get something from Alpine or Young miniatures.

I also just discovered a "Beginner" thread that answers all my questions. I'll link to it here for future reference:
http://www.planetfigure.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22943

An "Absolute Beginner Talk" forum can be found here:
http://www.planetfigure.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=32

Thanks Guys!
Brian

Personally I think a smaller canvas produces more acceptable results for a new painter. On a big bust in particular every glitch and less-than-perfect effect is out there for the whole world to see. A 54mm or 1/35 figure on the other hand demands much less precision though it may not be apparent at first. My two bits.

As a noob myself, I'm looking for a smaller figure. I personally like 54mm so I'm sticking with that. I also am looking to go with a metal figure as if needed to be stripped and started over, it will be more durable. Good luck!

Chuck