Tackling my first airplane kit in about 40 years, after completing two 1/700 ship kits in the past year. It’s the old 1/72 Monogram/Italeri B-25 kit, and it’s going together fairly well, but now that I am ready to close the fuselage, what is the best/most effective way to mask off the cockpit, windows, etc?
This was never an issue when I was a kid because I seldom painted my kits! But now I will be using olive drab and light gray from rattle cans (can’t afford an airbrush yet) and can see disaster looming on the horizon.
Also, is it better to attach all the major sub-assemblies - wings, stabilizer, etc. - and spray the whole thing, or spray each one and then attach and try to fill/hide the resultant seams?
Swanny has a great tutorial here http://www.swannysmodels.com/Canopies.html that gives one way to mask canopies. There are many other methods described on the net - try a google search on masking canopies.
I’ve been happier with my results if I put the major subassemblies together, using putty where needed, and sanding before I put the paint on. But it really depends on the model: if your test fittings show no gaps, then it may be easier to paint first, especially if your paint scheme uses different colors on subassemblies.
Take some time to read the threads in this and other forums (fora?) to get an idea of how some of the masters do it. Take a look at some of Swanny’s other hints on his site - you’ll learn a lot. And above all, have FUN!
Modeling can be defined as the ability to see disaster looming on the horizon. Successful modeling is characterized by the ability to avoid it! Swanny’s tips on masking is one of the best ways to achieve that. Take your time, use a new blade and light cutting strokes, and you should be fine. Also remember that Future is your friend! Good luck!