Simulating rivetted surfaces

The rivetted skin on many 1940s aircraft develops a distinct pillowed or quilted look to it.

Can anyone tell me how to simulate this effect in 1/48th scale (or any scale for that matter)

The case in point for me is a late 40s civilian Lancaster, which means that I have to deal with all the issues relating to the Tamiya kit.

Many thanks

Vespa, I really hope someone can answer this question! I know it’s been asked before and I remember one of the answers was something to the effect of “this was once done in an old issue of FSM but I don’t remember which one.” I know a lot of the older planes had this look to them. That’s one of my beefs against the Tamiyas of the world with their overly perfect planes. They make the darned skins way too ultra perfectly smooth!

Help us!

Eric

search the web for “Petr Dousek”, he sells a riveting tool and he also has some tips to make the effect your talking about.

I haven’t tried this, but I seem to remember reading about it. Like using a hobby knife to make raised panel lines, take a needle and push it into the plastic where you want a rivet. The needle displaces the plastic, causing it to rise up in a circle. Obviously, you want to try it on some scrap to see if it works.

Vespa,

Take a look at this article, I found it very helpful.

http://www.largescaleplanes.com/tips/RatoMarczak/riveting_1/riveting_1.html

Cheers
Thom

I dont know if this is the answer you are looking for but Calibre35 (a Aftermarket model company) makes rivets of various calibers and sizes.
You can buy a multi pack containing couple dozen multisize-rivets for under $10USD.

[:)]