forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com

WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: GazzaS on June 08, 2020, 06:27:10 PM

Title: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 08, 2020, 06:27:10 PM
Hi everyone!
    After dithering on this scheme for a while... like over a year..., I've finally decided to begin before somebody else does.  Building a model that is unique is important to me at times.  So, I've chosen this scheme:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/6139/VpdJ6O.png)
After many hours of research and a few timely pieces of information from friends here, I'm ready to proceed.

The base for all of my labors is the WNW Fokker D.VII (Alb).  I don't know if the plane is built by Albatros or not.  But I am told that an expert believes that some of the cowl parts have been replaced with OAW pieces.  This gives me a little more individuality.

I began last week.  I started with the engine.  I'm not going to hyper detail it as only the top will be seen, anyway.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/4025/UCD6Yu.jpg)

Inspired by the guys who have begun to fabricate their own props, I looked for materials.   I considered both paper and laminating balsa.   Then I realized that I have 32 WNW props with perfect proportions.  And I have a Silhouette Portrait.  Surely I must be able to do something with them.   I'm too cheap to buy perfect AM props.
Here are my results.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/1517/qGCipf.jpg)
If you think any one of them is better than the others, please let me know.  I'm quite undecided.

I'm looking forward to sharing this journey with you.

Happy modelling!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 08, 2020, 07:46:04 PM
Wow Gaz, thise props are superb. I think No2 is my favourite but they are all of a very high standard and any of them would be great to use. What a brilliant start! :)
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: bobs_buckles on June 08, 2020, 08:11:20 PM
Gazza,
 I like your choice of DVII and I also like what you have done with the props. 2 and 3 looks excellent to my eyes.
Would you mind sharing the cutting file? I use Make The Cut software and it should be able to import those lovely prop files.

Happy to pay for the privilege.

Cheers,
Bob
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 08, 2020, 10:10:17 PM
It seems that every day now someone finds another use for a plotter. This one is brilliant! My personal favorite is #3 but All look great! I will follow this build with interest!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Monty on June 09, 2020, 01:55:24 AM
Nice start there, Gaz! The engine looks absolutely fine, and the props are brilliant! One is my favourite.. I note your great research trying to get the colours right, some good thinking there! Regards, Marc.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: lone modeller on June 09, 2020, 02:34:54 AM
I agree with the others: superb props and the engine looks good too. Personally I tink that props 1 and 4 are the best - just to make your final choice more difficult!

Stephen.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 09, 2020, 09:52:55 AM
I'm taking Stephen side on props 1 and 4 , top notch and very convining . Nice clean work on the engine as well .  :)


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 09, 2020, 03:14:16 PM
Hi everyone,
   Thank you for the great replies!  TBH, number 3 had been my favorite until this morning when I had a quick look before work.  I'll let them rest awhile and maybe play with them some more, later.  There is a six layer prop used by the Fokker, too.  But I don't know if I can find sticky enough masking for the minuscule amount of contact area required.

The thickness of the props at the center is only 4MM.  That means that each of three loops would have a maximum thickness of slightly less than .6 of a mil.  Though the cutter can do it, I don't know that the masking material would hold after the necessary fumbling to get them all aligned properly.  But...  since I still have 32 WNW props to go with only 8 kits....  I'll have a go.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: FAf on June 09, 2020, 03:19:09 PM
Fantastic use of the plotter and plastic props! Could you perhaps show/explain a little more about the process? Or is it as simple as cutting masks and placing them on top of eachother?

I can't choose between the four of them... maybe #2?!

Cheers Fredrik
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: gbrivio on June 09, 2020, 03:24:35 PM
Very nice scheme for a unique model. I like all four props, and it will be nice to know more about the making.
I recently bought a cutting plotter as well, but I'm still reading the manual and didn't used it yet. Following with interest and fun.
Ciao
Giuseppe
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bill_S on June 10, 2020, 12:08:25 PM
Nice clean work on the engine, Gaz! I can't decide which prop I like the best, though. I'll be following with interest...
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Brad Cancian on June 10, 2020, 01:46:26 PM
Hi Gaz - those props look fantastic. I also have  Silhouette Portrait and you have inspired me. Would you be willing to share the file you created? I'd like to try and downsize what you've done to 1/48 or 1/72 scale.

Great stuff!

BC
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 10, 2020, 04:13:00 PM
Fantastic use of the plotter and plastic props! Could you perhaps show/explain a little more about the process? Or is it as simple as cutting masks and placing them on top of eachother?

I can't choose between the four of them... maybe #2?!

Cheers Fredrik

Thanks for the great replies everyone!

Brad, I sent you a PM.

Fredrik,
   It's pretty simple actually.  The masks are simple loops and are just applied to the props in the way I wanted....  mostly.  The problem is wrapping around the propeller edge.    Sometimes you have to sever the mask and use a little blutack to fill in the gap. 

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: bobs_buckles on June 10, 2020, 04:26:47 PM
Fantastic use of the plotter and plastic props! Could you perhaps show/explain a little more about the process? Or is it as simple as cutting masks and placing them on top of eachother?

I can't choose between the four of them... maybe #2?!

Cheers Fredrik

Thanks for the great replies everyone!

Brad, I sent you a PM.

Fredrik,
   It's pretty simple actually.  The masks are simple loops and are just applied to the props in the way I wanted....  mostly.  The problem is wrapping around the propeller edge.    Sometimes you have to sever the mask and use a little blutack to fill in the gap. 

Gaz

Thanks for the file, Gaz!
You will be honoured as and when I use them.

Cheers!
von B  ;)
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 16, 2020, 01:48:20 PM
Hello friends,
    I haven't made a lot of progress.  With another build going, and all of the detail painting required for the Fokker's cockpit have slowed me down.  Here's the seat area with flying wires.  I still have to add the aileron cables.  I've noticed in close up photos that the aileron cables don't seem to be very tight, and have a turnbuckle not very far from the pilot.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/7364/PpGGzZ.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/4963/e0Uaxx.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/2062/5poILt.jpg)

The seat belts are HGW cloth belts with PE buckles and hardware.  I like them much better than PE belts!  The canvas seat is modelled without the cushion as I expect any prudent pilot would want a parachute...  I know I would.  The seat is weathered with oils and pigments in hopes of giving a used appearance.  I also used pigments on the floorboards to look like a small amount of dry, gray dirt.

Thanks for looking!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 16, 2020, 05:37:12 PM
After a few more hours, the engine and other parts are in place and ready to go into the cockpit.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/236/VJznJu.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/2874/yCFbnG.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/8279/UVb1jQ.jpg)

I used clear UV gel to give the dials a glassy look.

Happy Modelling!!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Borsos on June 16, 2020, 07:42:33 PM
What a great start on a unique Fokker, Gaz. Very nice!
Andreas
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 16, 2020, 08:20:27 PM
What a great start on a unique Fokker, Gaz. Very nice!
Andreas

Thank you, Andreas!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 16, 2020, 09:20:02 PM
Great work Gazza, the panel behind the seat look amazing. All the little painted details look so neat and convincing. Lovely modelling!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 16, 2020, 09:39:08 PM
Wow Gaz you are moving right along! Lovely interior work as always!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: kensar on June 17, 2020, 12:07:30 AM
Nice, crisp detail, GazzaS.  Logical weathering in the cockpit, too.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: lone modeller on June 17, 2020, 03:30:37 AM
I know from my limited experience of WNW engines that their kits are good but modellers like you take them to a much higher level. Super internal details and weathering. I am looking forward to more updates.

Stephen.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Gisbod on June 17, 2020, 06:03:45 AM
That’s very convincing Gaz!

So, the props are just kit props masked and sprayed? I like all of them.

Guy
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 17, 2020, 06:52:42 AM
Wow Gaz you are moving right along! Lovely interior work as always!
RAGIII

Thank you, Rick!


Nice, crisp detail, GazzaS.  Logical weathering in the cockpit, too.


Thank you, Ken!

I know from my limited experience of WNW engines that their kits are good but modellers like you take them to a much higher level. Super internal details and weathering. I am looking forward to more updates.

Stephen.

Thank you, Stephen.  I really don't do too much with the engines.  Just paint and some washes.   I like to use the Citadel washes Agrax Earthshade, Nuln oil, and Seraphim Sepia.  They're acrylic washes that flow well and dry pretty quickly.

That’s very convincing Gaz!

So, the props are just kit props masked and sprayed? I like all of them.

Guy

Thank you, Guy.  Yes, just painted a light wood color, masked and painted with a darker wood color.  And then finally sprayed with some Tamiya clear orange and yellow.

Great work Gazza, the panel behind the seat look amazing. All the little painted details look so neat and convincing. Lovely modelling!

Thank you, Richie!  I've always loved the look of the lozenge behind the seat.  Thankfully, WNW provides nice decals for it.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bughunter on June 17, 2020, 07:05:15 AM
What a great start into a great project!

Inspired by the guys who have begun to fabricate their own props, I looked for materials.  I considered both paper and laminating balsa.
Hmm, you masked props looks nice, but if you want to try real layers one day: I think balsa has to much grain and you will not get a nice surface from it.

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 17, 2020, 07:28:03 AM
What a great start into a great project!

Inspired by the guys who have begun to fabricate their own props, I looked for materials.  I considered both paper and laminating balsa.
Hmm, you masked props looks nice, but if you want to try real layers one day: I think balsa has to much grain and you will not get a nice surface from it.

Cheers,
Frank

Thanks Frank.  I think I'll stick to painting for now.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: smperry on June 17, 2020, 09:01:45 AM
GazzaS
I am super impressed with your prop painting skills. Did you make some kind of masks or is the darker color freehand?

My favorites, if one can put that fine a point to it, are #4 & #1.

sp
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 17, 2020, 10:12:30 AM
Just masks my friend.  Thank you!  My hands are far too unsteady for neat painting.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 17, 2020, 10:20:47 AM
Now that is some very fine work Gary  ;)


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 17, 2020, 03:46:04 PM
Now that is some very fine work Gary  ;)


Terri

Thank you, Terri!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 18, 2020, 12:13:57 PM
I'm actually at a rough place in the build.  Adding the cowl pieces to complete the front end shows me that something isn't right.  Something I have been worried about the entire time.   Because I have heard about how things can happen if you glue over paint or are slightly off.

So, I've got the whole front end squeezed together and drying.  Hopefully it won't all pop off when I pull off the tape.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/553/zdlhjx.jpg)
To relieve some of the pressure, I've snipped one of the motor mounts on both sides.

So far, I can't really tell where I went wrong.  But I don't want to tear the fuselage apart as I used reinforced joints and CA to make a super-strong dorsal joint behind the cockpit.  I know that the seam can show over time as it can take a long time for plastic cements to completely cure...even months.   
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/4526/Oowvuy.jpg)
So, despite my best efforts to avoid making the interior too big for the exterior, I ended up there anyway.

I'm hoping that in the end, none of these problems will be noticeable.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 18, 2020, 02:50:20 PM
Having finished 5 of the DVII kits I must admit to having had mixed results with the fit of those panels.
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 18, 2020, 05:43:17 PM
Having finished 5 of the DVII kits I must admit to having had mixed results with the fit of those panels.
RAGIII

Thanks Rick!  I don't feel so bad, now.  It's like the build is sailing along...  and then you're confronted with some 3d puzzle that defies easy dry-fitting.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 22, 2020, 09:19:34 PM
Hello Friends,
    To follow is a tale of woe.  For despite my best attempts to follow suggestions regarding paint and fitting, I failed.  When the moment came to attach the lower wing, that magic moment when you know whether you've done everything right or wrong, I discovered that the nose of my Fokker was angled to the right.  I applied gentle pressure, hoping to realign the parts with minimal fuss and damage.

But the little frame holding engine and cockpit was too firm and would not flex.  Instead, it crushed like an eggshell in my hands.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/8149/ltiN21.jpg)

I felt pretty bad for totally wasting a WNW kit.  Especially now that I can't just order one.  I appreciate how WNW engineered the thing...  but it requires a bit of perfection.

Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 22, 2020, 09:25:07 PM
Oh no Gazza, what a real shame! Is it irretrievably damaged or will it be possible to get it back together. Either way I recommend a nice cold beer as a remedy before doing anything else. I was really enjoying this build, hope it can be salvaged.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 22, 2020, 09:41:14 PM
Thanks Richie!
      It's a hurtful waste. 

    After a restless night where I spent a lot of time in a half sleep thinking about how I might avoid the same thing happening with my lone remaining Fokker D.VII kit....  the Goering special.  Because I really wanted to do this build.

After much thought, it occurred to me that a way to avoid repeating the problem was to install the frame-cockpit-engine section into the fuselage while the glue joints was still soft.  And avoiding until the absolute last minute gluing anything that will make that section rigid.  That meant that everything had to be painted/decal-ed/rigged beforehand.

It was a fiddly process, with some undesired to-and-fro-ing.  I even had to sever the fuel cell to firewall joint because somehow I'd got it wrong.  But anyway, here is where I'm at now:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/6606/YR9nyl.jpg)

You'll notice that now I'm using the Benz IV engine in place of the previous Mercedes D.III au.  This isn't really important because there is so little known about the subject in the photo.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/3880/pHAKCL.jpg)

So far, I feel a bit more confident about the way this second build is going.   I'm in a place where I can still manipulate the engine on forward.

I don't know if I can salvage the other kit.  Everything depends on that frame.  Perhaps if it had been engineered so that the struts and LG were attached to the fuselage shell instead of that dang frame...



Gaz

Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 23, 2020, 12:11:50 AM
I am sorry your first DVII has suffered what hopefully becomes a setback rather than Demise! The second one is moving along nicely. I am sure you are now aware that constant test fitting on this kit is a requirement. Keep going and I will remain a a fan and supporter of your work!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 23, 2020, 12:31:04 AM
The second one looks amazing Gazza, I have the Goering DVII in my stash so will take the warning about getting the frame to fit into the fuselage.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Vickers on June 23, 2020, 01:52:00 AM
Looks like you're well on your way to good save, Gaz. Way to gut it out and keep up the great work! I've seen models with less serious issues end up half-built in the tote of shame for decades.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 23, 2020, 09:39:55 AM
I am sorry your first DVII has suffered what hopefully becomes a setback rather than Demise! The second one is moving along nicely. I am sure you are now aware that constant test fitting on this kit is a requirement. Keep going and I will remain a a fan and supporter of your work!
RAGIII

Thanks Rick!  Yes, this kit is a bigger challenge than expected.

The second one looks amazing Gazza, I have the Goering DVII in my stash so will take the warning about getting the frame to fit into the fuselage.

Thank you, Richie.   Here's a new warning I just discovered this morning:  The BMW motor is taller than the Mercedes motor.  So, what I would do is avoid completely building up the motor.  First I would get to where my pictures are, now.  And then I would build the Front end assembly with radiator, but not attach it.  Because when you get to the point where you need to "slightly bend" the small pipe near the top of the radiator, you may find that the piece you are supposed to bend is too short.  What I had to do was to replace the short piece of pipe that the directions said required gentle bending with 1mm copper tube with three bends in a part only 1/2 inch long.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/548/EtoSM5.jpg)

 You may also find, as I did that the sump of the BMW engine is pushed-up a bit by the U-shaped brackets at the base of the motor mounts.  I had to shave the widest parts of the sump's curve.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/9020/0cOX5D.jpg)

You may also find that your magneto pipes interfere with the port side upper cowling.     Then, I have shaved the port upper cowling down to almost see-through.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/3491/lZucBG.jpg)

Maybe I've done it all wrong.  Hopefully somebody who has used the BMW engine can let me know. 

Looks like you're well on your way to good save, Gaz. Way to gut it out and keep up the great work! I've seen models with less serious issues end up half-built in the tote of shame for decades.

Thank you, Vickers.  I think I would have given up if I were not very keen to realize the scheme I want.   Or, if I didn't have the second kit handy without any scheme planned for it.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 23, 2020, 10:18:25 AM
Wow Gary , wasn't expecting this with your first one , very sad to hear of this and know what the gut feeling is like .

Second one is proving to have its challenges as well , which by the way is looking really good far .

If you decide to toss the first one in the bin , let me know and I will take it off your hands .

Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 23, 2020, 02:06:49 PM
Wow Gary , wasn't expecting this with your first one , very sad to hear of this and know what the gut feeling is like .

Second one is proving to have its challenges as well , which by the way is looking really good far .

If you decide to toss the first one in the bin , let me know and I will take it off your hands .

Terri

Terri,
    That's a fine idea.  Send me a postal address at your convenience.   I'll be able to send it once I'm sure I have all of my plastic and decals sorted.

Gaz

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bughunter on June 24, 2020, 05:08:39 AM
Gaz, that is really hard fro my eyes to see such an accident :o
I'm always impressed by the amount of details and quality of those WNW kits, really pitty, that they are nor more available! So such accident hurt even more :(

I hope you will have now a trouble free build until finishing!

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 24, 2020, 08:22:07 AM
Thank you, Frank!  I hate wasting any kit. 

Fortunately, after much fiddling, we've passed that particular danger stage.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/5533/JdR7W3.jpg)

But there is still much fragility and alignment concerns to worry about.  Now I can start some masking and some painting.

Thanks for looking.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 24, 2020, 08:26:58 AM
Gazza I'm so glad you've cleared that particular hurdle and can have some fun painting. If the masking you did on the props is anything to go by you're going to smash it out of the park.
Richie
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 24, 2020, 08:33:03 AM
Thanks Richie!  Today's masking will be around all of those fuselage details.  I think I will use mostly blutack.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 24, 2020, 08:38:19 AM
Looks Perfect Gaz! Well done!! I am looking forward to the painting and decal work!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 24, 2020, 09:58:47 AM
Looks Perfect Gaz! Well done!! I am looking forward to the painting and decal work!
RAGIII

Thanks Rick.  Decals are a bit of a worry.  Not that I don't know how to use large WNW decals.  I had some practice on 2 other builds.  However, this will be my first time with cookie cutter decals.  And the fuselage decals will have to be shortened to fit the fuselage band.  My big worry there is that I may shorten them too much by mistake.  I have plenty of 5-color lozenge.  But little spare 4-color which is what the majority of this bird is covered with.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 24, 2020, 10:22:53 AM
That was fast ! Super job on getting it ll to fit , even with the tweaking you mention most excellent work Gary . Cookie cutter decals like you I haven't tried them before so I'm looking forward on how that turns out .


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 24, 2020, 09:26:17 PM
Thank you, Terri!

I find myself at a point in every build where I decide that my second one will be much better because I have learned the foibles of the kit.  But I don't double up, usually.  But the closure of WNW helped me to squander money quite quickly.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 25, 2020, 03:36:44 PM
Hi everyone,
   The hits keep coming.  I have come to believe that this build is cursed.

To protect the exposed flying wires, I enclosed them in a folded piece of tape on each side of the fuselage.  I had just set the fuselage down and was removing my hand (wearing rubber gloves) when I realized the model was still attached to my glove, it was too late.  The tape/glove bond had separated and my Fokker was plummeting to the tile floor.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/4374/337HH6.jpg)

I had made the propeller shaft very free wheeling.  So, trying to drill it out is gonna be painful.

....anyways....

I cut the masks that I had created before I began whacking away at the plastic.

The masking began on the fuselage:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/6862/Nc7VfS.jpg)

The result on the dorsal spine...  some touch-up required:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/1604/FvAZk6.jpg)

I found I had a little more time, so did the port side, too...
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/4356/YUhSvj.jpg)

The WNW decals are white backed...  so a little over-spray is no trouble....

Still hurting over that drive shaft, though.

Thank you for looking!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Borsos on June 25, 2020, 09:00:09 PM
Wonderful progress on that one, Gaz. Your self made masks are second to none!
Andreas
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 25, 2020, 09:18:45 PM
Wonderful progress on that one, Gaz. Your self made masks are second to none!
Andreas

Thank you sir!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 25, 2020, 10:24:31 PM
Superb masking Gaz, that looks completely perfect. The drive shaft must annoying but you'll get it sorted.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 25, 2020, 10:36:44 PM
Excellent Masking and painting Gaz! This will be a beautiful scheme! A shame about the prop shaft but it could have been worse  :(
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: kensar on June 25, 2020, 10:46:18 PM
As the others said, excellent masking and painting on the fuse.
This one is certainly fighting you, isn't it?
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 26, 2020, 07:35:21 AM
Superb masking Gaz, that looks completely perfect. The drive shaft must annoying but you'll get it sorted.

Thank you, Richie.  I've spent quite a few idle moments thinking about the best way to deal with that shaft.

Excellent Masking and painting Gaz! This will be a beautiful scheme! A shame about the prop shaft but it could have been worse  :(
RAGIII

Thank you, Rick!

As the others said, excellent masking and painting on the fuse.
This one is certainly fighting you, isn't it?

Thanks Ken.  I think next time (if I ever find/build another WNW D.VII) I'll avoid rigging the aileron controls and just glue monofilament later.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 26, 2020, 09:37:42 AM
Beautiful masking job  :) Man that looks sharp and colourful  8)


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 26, 2020, 10:43:11 AM
Beautiful masking job  :) Man that looks sharp and colourful  8)


Terri

Thank you, Terri.  A wash or two should mellow out the colors.  The 4-color lozenge is already pre-faded.  I reckon a light grey-brown should do the trick.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 26, 2020, 02:15:30 PM
Hello friends!
     I proceeded with masking and spraying.  As was suggested by another thread, I replaced the old cowls with newer OAW cowls with their distinctive lozenge pattern.  I even took a pic from the same angle to see if it gave me the right vibe.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/6782/IUpAmS.jpg)

I don't feel that this accurately portrays what I see in the picture.  What do you think?

Here is the starboard side:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/1733/cSPLmS.jpg)

I wonder if there is another kind of decoration up front?  Not that we'd know for sure unless we saw another image of this same aircraft from another angle.  I hate answering my own questions with "I don't knows".

What do you guys think?  Should I just overspray the cheek panels with the basic front end color?

Thanks for your thoughts!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: smperry on June 26, 2020, 03:22:48 PM
Looking at the photo, what little of the side cowl that shows, looks lozenge painted. I would use the loz side panels, both on account of the photo and because they just looks so good. You are really handling every problem this model throws at you, the result will be awesome.
sp
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: kensar on June 26, 2020, 10:11:19 PM
Looks to me like the entire fuse is lozenge covered, even the top between the cockpit and engine, as well as the top of the wing and the landing gear airfoil.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 26, 2020, 11:53:37 PM
I think you have it correct to My eyes! The cockpit decking near the Machine guns would most likely be green with random painting of Lilac per early OAW built DVIIs'. At least that is what I see  ::)
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 27, 2020, 10:33:56 AM
I say just go with what feels right .


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 27, 2020, 05:03:57 PM
Thank you everyone for your thoughts and input.  I really appreciate it.

This morning I spent some time establishing a piece of .9mm brass tube in the prop's broken driveshaft.

I also laid some of the lozenge.  I didn't want to lay them all in one day, for fear of lifting some while laying others.  It's WNW lozenge, so not as nice as the Aviattic.   But will have to do as I just can't make myself buy more decals when I have so much in the box.  Plus...  I have to dull it down a bit with washes...  so why pay extra?  I mean...they're great looking decals.  But hardly inexpensive when I look at the exchange rate, and shipping.

I decided to leave the cheek panels as they are.  I also painted the Jasta 54 tail markings.  I used Tamiya tape to do the masking.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/369/vAhOO7.jpg)

Thanks for looking!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 27, 2020, 06:38:13 PM
Coming together beautifully Gaz, must be a fiddly old job covering the whole aircraft with decals. You've done a great job though.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 27, 2020, 10:08:02 PM
Gaz, it looks Fabulous! Your Fokker is really moving along nicely.
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Radarman on June 28, 2020, 12:48:22 AM
Gaz,
I've got to say, that's really going to stand out, as far as Fokker D.VII  colour schemes go.
Despite the ups and downs, it been a great build to follow.
                                                                                           Kevin
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 28, 2020, 07:07:15 AM
Coming together beautifully Gaz, must be a fiddly old job covering the whole aircraft with decals. You've done a great job though.

Thank you, Richie.  Actually it's not very hard.  The thing to remember is to use a hair dryer instead of chemicals.

Gaz, it looks Fabulous! Your Fokker is really moving along nicely.
RAGIII

Thank you, Rick!

Gaz,
I've got to say, that's really going to stand out, as far as Fokker D.VII  colour schemes go.
Despite the ups and downs, it been a great build to follow.
                                                                                           Kevin

Thank you Kevin.  When I saw the picture of that bird, I knew I just had to model it despite the many questions raised.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on June 28, 2020, 08:21:42 AM
Decalling is coming along wonderful so far  :) Looking forward to the rest of them now .


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: rsanz on June 28, 2020, 09:21:22 AM
Hello friends!
     I proceeded with masking and spraying.  As was suggested by another thread, I replaced the old cowls with newer OAW cowls with their distinctive lozenge pattern.  I even took a pic from the same angle to see if it gave me the right vibe.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/6782/IUpAmS.jpg)

I don't feel that this accurately portrays what I see in the picture.  What do you think?

Here is the starboard side:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/1733/cSPLmS.jpg)

I wonder if there is another kind of decoration up front?  Not that we'd know for sure unless we saw another image of this same aircraft from another angle.  I hate answering my own questions with "I don't knows".

What do you guys think?  Should I just overspray the cheek panels with the basic front end color?

Thanks for your thoughts!

Gaz

Really nice scheme. I might have chosen different band colours around the fuselage but what you have looks really nice. 

I think you should paint the rest of the cowlings with OAW style lilac and dark green because this Fokker D.VII was built by OAW. therefore, unless the engine cowlings had been overpainted in a unit colour, they would remain in their original factory finish.

It also has an OAW undercarriage axle wing (with the clasps on the top and bottom) and wheel covers (part #D3).

This might help explain it a little better than my words.
http://www.wingnutwings.com/ww/productdetail?productid=3080&cat=4
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bughunter on June 29, 2020, 06:31:00 AM
Gaz, that is a great colorful Fokker! I like what you have painted.
Despite all adversities, please continue!

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 29, 2020, 04:43:51 PM
HI everyone,
    Thank you for the responses and helpful tips.

I've re-read both threads regarding this build and decided to go full OAW.  So, all I've accomplished in two days is to lay the fabric decals and repaint the nose.  I'm going to let the decals settle overnight...  then I'm going to being fading /blending them.  I don't know exactly what they did back then, but it looks like the may have browned them a little.  I want to do this before I add the detail decals and national insignia. 

If anyone knows what they actually did, I'd be glad for the tip. 

Anyway...  the photos:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/7471/9zWpis.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/2184/xBLwXx.jpg)

Those large decals....  such a PITA to lay.  I find it difficult when using the hair dryer to get them to lay down.  A second too long, and they blister.  And those blisters don't like to go down.

Thanks for looking!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: kensar on June 29, 2020, 09:58:05 PM
I think you nailed the paint scheme, Gaz.  I like it.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on June 29, 2020, 10:53:49 PM
Your DVII looks exceptional Gaz! Lovely painting!!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Borsos on June 30, 2020, 12:18:21 AM
Very nice paintjob. When I am not entirely wrong, the brown came from the color shift of the clear varnish they used.
Andreas
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on June 30, 2020, 03:44:10 AM
Yes Gaz! That is looking great.Glad the gremlins have decided to leave you in peace now to get on with your build. 
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Ryan on June 30, 2020, 04:43:19 AM


Inspired by the guys who have begun to fabricate their own props, I looked for materials.   I considered both paper and laminating balsa.   Then I realized that I have 32 WNW props with perfect proportions.  And I have a Silhouette Portrait.  Surely I must be able to do something with them.   I'm too cheap to buy perfect AM props.
Here are my results.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/1517/qGCipf.jpg)
If you think any one of them is better than the others, please let me know.  I'm quite undecided.

I'm looking forward to sharing this journey with you.

Happy modelling!


#4 is my vote.

Gaz
[/quote]
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 30, 2020, 05:34:25 AM
Thank you for the kind words, everyone!  Still, so much more to do.  And a lot of it, is a bit like fumbling in the dark.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 30, 2020, 05:41:34 AM
Very nice paintjob. When I am not entirely wrong, the brown came from the color shift of the clear varnish they used.
Andreas

I had wondered about this.  I need to do something to mute the colors, so I may have to experiment on some leftovers. 
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/World_War_I_Fokker_aircraft_-bi-plane.jpg/1920px-World_War_I_Fokker_aircraft_-bi-plane.jpg)
This one is in Canada.  But I don't want it to look this yellow-brown.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: gbrivio on June 30, 2020, 05:43:36 AM
Wonderful colours, great painting job. The unique livery really catches the eye.
Ciao
Giuseppe
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on June 30, 2020, 06:52:42 AM
Thank you, Giuseppe!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Kreston on June 30, 2020, 10:06:32 PM
This is really looking good! You've done an excellent job with the green and lilac cowling pieces.

Kreston
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bughunter on July 01, 2020, 05:12:19 AM
I like the new more consistent look of the cowling. Great paint job!

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 01, 2020, 10:18:01 AM
Thank you, both!  The earlier cowling was nagging at me, and advice too.  So, I reread the research thread on this build and decided to make the change as I also wasn;t very happy with the previous OAW lozenge.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on July 01, 2020, 10:33:57 AM
Very nice paint job. When I am not entirely wrong, the brown came from the color shift of the clear varnish they used.
Andreas

Will second this as well Gary , years ago this was posted on the Aerodrome . So maybe just tinting your clear coat with a tad of brown will give you the effect you are seeking ?


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on July 02, 2020, 08:29:44 AM
Lots of good suggestions here Gaz. I am sure your results will be superb!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 05, 2020, 06:57:01 PM
Thank you, everyone, for the great replies and helpful information.

With the majority of the struts in place, and the kit finally up on a jig, I feel like I'm getting somewhere, finally.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/7953/luTXEq.jpg)

I never was really happy with the 5-layer props I painted earlier.  It seems like every D.VII I looked at had a 7-layer prop.  So, finally after about 6 attempts I got one I can live with.  A can of oven cleaner was helpful in erasing the baddies.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/9014/pO9ZSq.jpg)

Doing the decals has been a challenge.  Despite wearing rubber gloves, I've had to fix a few frayed areas by patching them.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/9369/RDKvGE.jpg)

I hope when I put the wheels on, it sits levelly.  I used a bit of armor modelling technique to try to raise details on the louvered cowl.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img922/8996/p8mVkz.jpg)

And I think I need to drybrush the Spandaus.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/623/hyKzsQ.jpg)

I tried some new acrylic paints by Vallejo to do the leather effects.  The cockpit combing came out a bit darker than desired...  but I'm not redoing it.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img924/396/GI4fjm.jpg)

I used a misting of gray and then a second misting of brown-gray to tone down the lozenge.  I went a bit thicker on the fuselage, on purpose.
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/6840/t58gyN.jpg)

Thank you for looking!

Gaz

Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on July 05, 2020, 10:09:50 PM
Holy crap Gary ! She is looking spectacular so far  8) . The leather combing looks good to my eye , which Vallejo paints did you use ?

Not much more to go now , looking forward to seeing her with the top wing in place , very enjoyable build so far  :)


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RichieW on July 05, 2020, 10:21:38 PM
Brilliant work Gazza, I really like your painting of the leather. Definitely don't redo then they look so convincing! The prop looks awesome too. This is going to be a really stunning model when finished.
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 06, 2020, 08:27:06 AM
Holy crap Gary ! She is looking spectacular so far  8) . The leather combing looks good to my eye , which Vallejo paints did you use ?

Not much more to go now , looking forward to seeing her with the top wing in place , very enjoyable build so far  :)


Terri

Thank you, Terri.  The set I used is called:
(https://acrylicosvallejo.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/wood-and-leather-70182-vallejo-model-color-effects-set-1.jpg)

It comes with a handy instruction leaflet:
(https://www.planetfigure.com/attachments/_dsc2438_web-jpg.182356/)

I usually fret over leather.  But this made it really easy.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 06, 2020, 08:27:51 AM
Brilliant work Gazza, I really like your painting of the leather. Definitely don't redo then they look so convincing! The prop looks awesome too. This is going to be a really stunning model when finished.

Thank you, Richie!

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Alexis on July 06, 2020, 09:19:34 AM
Thank-you Gary , I have a few of those shades already . Didn't know that they had a set . Will have to look into this more .


Terri
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Early Bird Fan on July 06, 2020, 10:08:34 AM
the props and leather look amazing as does the rest of it, really worth all the time and effort you're putting into it
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on July 06, 2020, 10:19:14 AM
This is a True work of art. The prop is Gorgeous as is the leather and Guns!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 06, 2020, 10:55:20 AM
the props and leather look amazing as does the rest of it, really worth all the time and effort you're putting into it

Thanks, mate!  With the now-enforced rarity of WNW kits, there is unfortunately a little more pressure to avoid stuffing it up.

Gaz

This is a True work of art. The prop is Gorgeous as is the leather and Guns!
RAGIII

Thank you, Richard.  These WNW kits....  they make you go that extra mile because otherwise you're just assembling all of the great work they've put in it.

Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: FAf on July 07, 2020, 04:15:32 AM
Looking really good! I like the different types/layers of detail you're adding - painted markings, different lozenge, painted propeller, etc. It's going to look spectacular!
/Fredrik
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Bughunter on July 07, 2020, 05:45:27 AM
AK has also two wood painting sets and one set for leather I think.
Your details are looking great!

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 08, 2020, 03:21:17 PM
Hi Everyone!
    Time to call this one done:
(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/img923/29/nfStNh.jpg)

You can find the other final photos here:
https://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=11313.0 (https://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=11313.0)

Thank you for sharing the journey with me!


Gaz
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: Gene K on July 08, 2020, 09:17:26 PM
Thank you for sharing the journey with me!

You are a wonderful tour guide! A real work of art.

Thanks you again for sharing the prop cutter files.

Gene K
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: RAGIII on July 08, 2020, 11:03:01 PM
Beautiful! I am heading to the phtos of the completed Model Now!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: GazzaS on July 09, 2020, 08:23:14 AM
Thank you for sharing the journey with me!

You are a wonderful tour guide! A real work of art.

Thanks you again for sharing the prop cutter files.

Gene K

Thank you!  I hope the masks work well for you.
Beautiful! I am heading to the phtos of the completed Model Now!
RAGIII

Thank you!
Title: Re: Unknown Fokker D.VII. Plastic Supplied by WNW
Post by: gbrivio on July 10, 2020, 05:30:57 AM
Excellent, jumping to the completed models link.
Giuseppe