I started wearing latex gloves anytime I handle a kit in any way years ago and I never work without them now. I've found that this is a bulletproof way of keeping fingerprints off a completed model. I was wondering if anyone else does this or if I'm exposing a little OCD by admitting it here.

I use latex gloves that I purchase in boxes of 100 from my local auto parts store. I realize that some folks have a latex allergy but there are boxes of nitrile gloves on the shelf right by the latex ones. It did take a little while to get used to wearing them, especially when working with small bits but now I find no problems while wearing them.

Some people use cotton white gloves when handling their models. I really only use latex gloves when painting or after cleaning the model prior to painting.

I use latex when painting. and wash my hands alot when working with model. I have been trying to locate a source for the Tamiya ProCraft gloves in Canada, but have not had a lot of luck and Tamiya USA only ships with in the continental US.

I use nitrile gloves, when painting. I don't have any allergies to latex, but I like that the nitrile are form fitting. I haven't had any problems with fingerprints other than during the painting phase. If you want to avoid fingerprints, you can give the kit a wash with ipa, right before you paint. Handling the kit afterwards, I would suggest white cotton gloves, like the type you find at a music store.