Here are a few pics of my latest project, Classic Airframes 1:48 F-5, finished in foil nmf. Overall, I am basically pleased with the results (for a first effort), and I learned a TON about foil finishing for the next project. The kit was certainly not a “shake and bake” build, the fuselage gave me fits when it came tine to join the halves, and a LOT of putty. The front office was nicely detailed, but the underside was basically devoid of detail. The decals went on well and reacted very nicely to the MicroSol. I plan on doing more foil nmf finishes, including a 1:48 B-17G, with “Aluminum Overcats” markings. Your comments and constructive criticisms are welcomed, as always!
I myself like Bare metal foil. It takes alot of time to do well, but its worth it. I think your kit looks pretty good. There are a few wrinkles but I bet you learned enough this time to make your next projext better. I have done several kits in BMF now and each one looks better than the one before. Keep working with it and you will learn more each time.
I agree, [tup] on the bare metal foil job. I have only used it so far as a canopy mask but, someday … Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Electra 10-E is awaiting my tender mercies.
Smokinguns, Dubau and mfsob - thanks very much for your kind words. I think my next nmf project will be better, I have a better understanding of what the foil will/won’t do!
Rick, yes, it has some bad spots and I learned from them. I only wish that I could get Alclad to look right, but I have had no success with it so far. With both finishes, practice makes for a better model, so I’ll keep trying!
davew6003, yeah, I tried to do too big an area in a few spots and the foil wouldn’t/couldn’t conform to the multiple curves. Next time, I’ll work in smaller pieces, more like panel size. I really like the effect achieved by using the opposite sides of the foil next to each other - it gives it a nice, subtle contrast.
Darwin, coming from a modeler of your caliber, that is high praise, indeed! Thansk very much for the kind words and encouragement. With practice, I hope one day to reach the level of expertise that you, Swanny and Pix have already reached.
You know there was an article a while back( in FSM that had a P-38 on the front in foil ) that was all about applying foil. I read it and it helped me alot. You might be able to find it, although I cant remember the year or month. If I find it Ill post it here.
