For this issue I wanted to return to our process of repairing and refinishing a crashed E-flite P-39 Airacobra. Last time we used a combination of lightweight spackle and polycrylic finish to repair the crashed airplane. From there, we applied multiple coats of primer (sanding in between coats) to smooth out the airplane and then painted the airframe. This time, we’re going to show the final finishing steps of panel lines and weathering that I applied to the model. These small things provide big results in adding realism to a nice looking scale model. Oh and remember, when it comes to weathering, less is more!
PANEL LINES
The nice thing about using polycrylic on a foam aircraft is that it hardens the entire surface providing a hard coat to apply paint. Because of this, we can use a 0.5mm lead mechanical pencil to lightly draw panel lines over the entire model. The 0.5mm pencil provides a very convincing panel line. Once applied (using rulers, etc.), adding a light coat of 2x Rustoleum matte clear over the entire model protects the lines from smudging during the weathering process.
CONTROL SURFACE FADING
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Legend Hobby / Seagull Models - Cessna Grand Caravan 208
The Cessna Grand Caravan 208 is a legend in aviation circles. A single engine utility aircraft that punches up with capabilities that rival many twin engine aircraft in its class. Its seemingly simple configuration belies its near extreme utility.
PROPER CG LOCATION FOR AEROBATICS
If you are getting into aerobatics and are starting to perform more advanced maneuvers, it is time to discuss ways you can not only become a better pilot, but how you can also improve the flight characteristics of your airplanes.
Legend Hobby 13-Foot L-19 Bird Dog/ Cessna O-1
This famous multi-mission single engine observation aircraft served from 1950-1974. From calling out target locations to providing intel/recon information, the Bird Dog was a valued asset in both the Korean War and Vietnam.
EARN YOUR WINGS
10 Tips for First-Flight Success
Old School Model Works Fifty Six
The Fifty Six takes its design cues from the original .09- to .15-size Carl Goldberg Falcon 56 of the 1960s. Reworked to incorporate modern, lasercut techniques to make kit building better than ever.
FLYING TWINS Multi-engine warbirds made easy
Let’s face it, there’s just something extra special about twin-engine RC aircraft. Most modelers stop what they’re doing when a twin fires up on the flightline.
HOW TO BALANCE PROPELLERS
Four easy steps to increase performance and reduce vibration
PRODUCT REVIEW: RC PLANE STANDS BENCHTOP MODEL
I’m a sucker for shop stuff. I buy tools I will probably never use just because they are cool, or I might need to use them someday. When Glen from RC Plane Stands reached out about a review, however, I knew as soon as I browsed their website that I would be receiving something I would use a lot, maybe even daily.
SPIRIT OF RHINEBECK AWARD WINNER
A close up of Norman Malinowski’s 1/3-scale Albatros
CENTER OF GRAVITY BASICS
The secret to a plane that flies well
