I just got Zenix's frame, and started prepping it up. But take it from me, this job is going to be easier than an Astromech. But it all depends on how many bells and whistles you wanted with an R2, such as electronics and whatnot. I got half way done before I had to sell it, due to financial...
There are alot of kits out there with the brush and compressor together. Iwata and Badger are great brands. Ive heard some professional airbrushers like to use dual action, brushes with gravity feed cups.
Welcome bud. Darthchromer is a good guy, and I believe he is going to start the side panel run right after the front panel run. Shoot him a pm. Definitely show your progress as you build. I will be working on mine real soon. Cheers!
I remember seeing a thread of a build where they used wood screws and went over them with bondo. I think they also used wood glue, alot of it, to fill in seams. Looking great so far bro! Im going to be starting mine in a few weeks.