Good to see these surfaces nearly complete. I use Evergreen strip for the ribs on my models with Mr Surfacer 1000 around the edges on the 1/32 scale wings It gave a very good effect.
Stephen.
I have plenty of time (and styrene
to give that a try too. I have seen great examples of them.
Be careful if you use automotive putty. It heats up as it cures ( chemical reaction) so only apply it in thin layers, if you goop it on it can soften and deform adjacent plastic. Regards, Pete in RI
Thanks for the heads-up Pete
I 'm really enjoying your progress , tail looks fantastic so far
Terri
Yes, it's is finally starting to look like something, although, as usual it is all taking longer than expected, but then this is not a speed contest.
I have made slots for all 12 hinges by hand-drilling 4 holes for each slot with a 0.5 mm drill, and than I carefully scraped out the rest of the styrene with a fresh no. 11 blade:
...and inserted and CS-glued the hinges in place:
Ribtape is applied on the rudders and the lower planes and elevators:
Last item is the big topplane and elevators. I am drawing guidelines for the ribtape, (mis)using two Exacto clamps as a straight angle:
The ribtape (thank you Bob Von Buckles) are 1mm wide:
When cut a little longer than needed, I gently press and hold one end to the styrene, and than position the strip above the penciled guideline and drop it. They are a little stiff and straight as an arrow, so if you use them with care, they look very sharp. If I drop it wrong, I peel if of, leaving the beginning in place, and "drop" it again. The tack is just right: it still sticks after re-adjusting it a few times. Don't try to stretch it, for it is elastic and will return to its original length. So be sure to cut them a little longer than needed and use a very sharp knife to cut the excess when it is in place. Works like a charm, and with some practice I am finally getting the hang of it.
Thanks for looking in and the positive comments. They are much appreciated.
Willem