Has anyone bought/assembled/painted them? I'm interested in learning the basics of the craft. Can anyone recommend any good materials for sanding, painting, shaping etc. etc. ?
I haven't assembled one before but i have observed a friend do it before. First off, you need a good kit to begin with. Most Resin kits are sold in events and run out pretty fast. your best bet is to get recasted Resin kits from sites like E2064 or similar.
Next, you need to get thin steel rods, drills (electric and handdrills), a compressor kit, air brush paint and an air brush (better finish, if not, stick to masking+spraycan/handpaint), a range of sand papers (many different types. Should be available in your hardware store), eproxy (there's a range of different types used for recast/moulding. choose what you need. Should be easy to find in your normal hobby stall) and of cos, plastic cement.
Most people begin building their resin kits with naked kits as it's easier. I can enquire for more info if you have any more specific questions.
I'm familiar with the kinds of tools needed ( I own of few character hobby magazines like Replicant, their demonstrations preview materials), but what I need is more details of what kinds. What kinds of paint should be used (liked acrylic or enamel), what kind of primer (if any should) be used, the best way to conjoin parts, etc. etc.