there has got to be a way to simulate patches and sewn tears in WW I era biplane plastic kits. I love to build these kits but when I spray the fuselages and wings, they look so monochrome, even after wash and dry brush. Anyone got any advice on how to simulate more realistic “canvas”?
Depends on the scale. In 1/72, you wouldn’t really see a well-sewn seam. A patch might show up as less-weathered fabric. Keep in mind that fabric was doped, though, which tends to hide the repairs. Look at period photos - do the patches show up?
In larger scales, you might simulate a patch with a piece of tissue laid down with Future. I haven’t tried it, so test it on scrap first to see if it gives the effect you want.