When I re-scribe panel lines, Dymo tape usually does the trick as a straight edge. However, on my 1/48 Hellcat, it won’t work on the top of the fuselage. The curve at the top is too acute, the curves too compound, and the adhesive not sticky enough to stay in place.
Anyone know of an alternative straight edge for these situations?
Electrical tape maybe?
otherwisw, you’re going to have to free hand scribe that area, and using a fine razor saw works best for that.
Verlinden used to offer a photo-etched scribing template that was made of flexible metal. For simple curves, you could easily tape it down, but compound curves often required that you had to get a little creative in taping and holding it in place to get nice, straight lines. It’s proven to be a decent little tool over the years, but I have no clue if it’s still on the market.
For the more difficult areas such as you describe, I use Frisket tape. Thick enough to provide an easy edge for the scribing tool, saw blade or Exacto blade to follow, moderate tack so no residue left behind. Comes in large sheets, so you have to cut in strips, easy enough.
Hobby Lobby carries it, most drafting supply stores as well, I buy mine at University book store. Re-usable, so buy it once and you have a lifetime supply. It works well for me.
Patrick
Yes;
It’s called Flex Rule. I found one at the local Harbor Freight! This is a quarter inch wide six foot ruller in a pull back case like it’s big brothers. It is flat though, So it will lay down nice. Sometimes you can find them at the counter by the register in hardware stores .They are also sold as key chain novelties.
The gundam modellers have some scribing tape that is a step up from Dymo, two brands are HIQ Parts and Madworks. You’d have to order it from one of the gundam shopping sites though (newtypehq.com, usagundamstore.com for example).
You might not need to give up on Dymo. You could try making small nicks or cuts in the side of the tape opposite to the side you’re using as a straight edge. That would let the tape fit more closely to the surface and along the curve.