Hey Commander, like I was talking about on my Mando Couple thread, if you were able to swing enough for some silver type paint, paint that on your bucket after the primer. Then paint on toothpaste (I used Arm & Hammer type, but don't think it matters) in streaks for cuts, dots for dents and dings. Then lay down your color coat. Once it's dry, wash your bucket and the toothpaste will come off. Don't try to wipe it, cause the paint will basically turn the toothpaste into creamy paint and will smear your paint job. Washing will get it off and make the edges of your mask lines look chipped.
I thought it was win-win. 18 bucks for masking fluid vs. 1 dollar for toothpaste & not even cause I already got that. I try to find bits of stuff like you and make use of it. Remember, OT Star Wars was all about real world used items and kit bashing.
Oh and here's a tip for you. Ask your ROTC buds and others you may know to see if they make model kits...even if it's embarrassing to admit for them. All current and prior modelers have a stash of random spray paints, most importantly to you, usually lots of silver and black.
