Actually, it’s not really all the bad…I wished my early models had looked that good. Took me many hears to create a model that I was remotely happy with.
Sounds like you’re on the right track - being able to identify your mistakes and how to fix them.
Getting an airbrush and compressor will change your life Go for it.
Go to Bare Metal Foil’s website and prder the stuff online. It’ll also change your modelling habits forever and improve your models.
Cheers
LeeTree
Your B-17 looks really nice. Remember–you build to please yourself. Use the advice of others and your own creativity and you will be surprised with the results.
Actually, this B-17 was a fun build (it just didn’t turn out as I expected). And I definitely know what I want to improve on… and thanks to nkm1416 I just might be on my way there! I ran off to Harrison Plaza (which is quite a run since I live near Proj. 4) and found JMN’s Hobby shop. What a fantastic shop! It makes all the ones I’ve been to so far in Manila look like hardware stores. For the first time, I have access to detailed resin cockpits, aftermarket decals, aftermarket photoetched parts, and more! Whoa. Too bad that they’re mostly for modern 1/48 jet aircraft… Lots of interesting kits too, example: A cut away submarine would make an interesting build!
Good Lord, I really pushed my bank account to the limit yesterday! Not only did they have one bare metal foil but two! I figured that it might be a while until I go back there, so I took both. Then I got one of those extra fine brushes (for my canopy work. I figure I’ll just stick to painting canopies with a steady hand), a panel scriber, some paint and an Academy 1/72nd scale B-17G for good measure (My fifth B-17 and my first G model!) I’m becoming like Chris, stockpiling models under my bed (though I don’t have a wife to hide it from… [:p])
Once again, maraming salamat, pare! (many thanks), NKM1416! [:D]
Don’t mention it, it’s nothing really. Basta modeler, anytime!
Shrikes & nkm,
Say hi to Natalie for me. Its been a while. Btw, you might want to check out Hobbies & Comics in Makati Cinema Square. There are some unusual items you could find there.[;)]
Howdy all,
If you have never tried this method of painting canopies, give it a shot. Take elmers white school glue, in a 50/50 mix with water and paint the area of the canopy you do not want painted. Use two coats, apply the second ater the first has dried. You can than shoot (or brush) the canopy with no worries. After the paint has dried, just use a needle or exacto knife and peel the glue off.
I read this little tip somewhere, its what I do and it work great. You can also use the elmers to temporarily position the canopy of over clear parts in place to paint.
Thats a good lookin B-17 for a hand painted effort. Keep up the good work shrikes. And for masking canopies I’ve used the old Scotch Magic Tape method for years. Either for airbrushing or handbrushing. Here when you cut the tape, always use a new blade, and once you have a panel cut remove the excess then burnish edges, with the Magic tape you can see it go from a frosty appearance to an almost clear look. Use a round toothpick with an end carved to a chisel shape to remove the tape after painting, don’t wait too long, this stuff seems to stick more and more with time. You can also use the toothpick to “chisel” away any paint that may have managed to get under the tape.
Bob
Shrike:
Finish or not it already looked good. Don’t worry about the problems you think it had. We are all like that. Don’t loose sleep over it. Without an airbrush you did a fine job. Keep it up and keep sharing pics.
Good luck and more power, pare.
Shrike:
I can’t add anything to the tips you already have been given. I was going to say to try and always use the best tools you can (sharp blades and that sort of thing) but you have already figured that out.
I would be proud to display that B-17. Great job!
Bruce