I do it the same way you do, but I know a few here will say its the long way.
I find it far quicker this way.
Well maybe not ... but i have a question none the less ^^
When in the first stage of profiling (for me anyways) use the pen to outline the larger parts of the aircraft. Lets take my Merlin as an example...
I did one for the main body, one for the tail, one for the sponson, and one for each engine house. Roughly ... I then fill them in with different colours so i can trim them properly. I can then shade them with presets (I know this is a bad thing to use, but i am a nooob ^^) without it effecting the whole aircraft, but just the part i am modifying.
How do you guys do it?
I havn't been able to find a tut on it.
Thanks,
BP