Guys–
I’m not sure if this is the right place to ask…but being relatively new to current model practices, I searched the archives and I have seen many references to Photo Etch parts and pieces, so my question:
Being unfamiliar with Photo Etch (PE) parts–can someone give a good explanation of what they are exactly, and when, how and where, do you use them effectively??
Thanks in advance for all the replies!!!
Qwik-
It’s microns thin copper plating that has been acid etched ino shapes with textures etched into the top side to represent detail.
It’s used usually to add detail that is too thin to be properly replicated in plastic, such as mesh grills or parts of suspension. They also make tons of seatbelt sets, so you can add realistic belt buckles or add detail to wheelwells.
And they also have more complex PE sets that require folding to create 3-d parts like boxes or cover plates.
I usually find that I end up using a mix of PE, resin, stock and scratchbuild to detail a kit. You can sometimes get a PE set and end up only using a handful of parts. A lot of it depends on your skill level, the level of detail you wish to add and how well the PE part can replicate the detail.
-Fred
Megatron-
Excellent explanation!!! I believe I will try some on the F-4E I’m building.
What are placards and stencils --stencils seem to be decals, but I guess they aren’t included in the decals provided in the box(???).
Thanks again for your help.
Qwik-
These are some very good explainations, but they are not just made from copper, they use brass and stainless steel too. You can buy them painted or un-painted and they really can add realism to a kit.
While they are great they are only one part of the tools available to you, resin, stock are more…