Yet another Future and canopy question...

Modeling Subjects Aircraft
1

I am doing my first kit with the canopy dip and wondered if I need change any of my methods? I paint with MM enamels, cement with either diluted white glue or clear canopy cement, and mask with a product called ‘parafilm’. Is the adhesion good for the MM paints to stay on the Future?

I also wondered if you have any preffered methods for temporarily cementing canopies in place for painting when they are to be posed open later.

2

Jim you have described what I have been doing for a long time. The only difference is I have not used Parafilm. But it is and adhesive sheet and I have used all kinds of tape and liquid mask without issue.

White glue is fine for a temp job. Or stuff the cockpit with damp tissue of some foam rubber and maybe some tape to seal the gaps. Paint the canopy separately. I always glue the windscreen on before paint since that needs to be blended into the fuselage.

3

I have used a few dabs of white glue as a temp measure, but sometimes I bump it loose.

Here is info about Parafilm, and I swear by it:

http://www.clubhyper.com/reference/usingparafilmda_1.htm

Great for bubbled or curved canopies and wind screens.

I have used the canopy as a mask, but hate to leave Parafilm on too long as it hardens with age and thought still fairly easy to remove, it does get a bit more difficult. Not sure how it will wok with Future.

4

I always use the Future/Parafilm M combo. No problems with adhesion whatsoever. Works great. I usually use a little white glue to hold the canopy on as I use the canopy as a mask for the cockpit as well.

5

Thanks guys, it never hurts to ask questions before messing something up. As I type, the parts have been masked and ready for placement and paint! Soon it will be time to shoot the whole airplane! I always love that stage as it’s when I start to see the final product emerge from all the work.

6

I don’t use Future on anything… “Super-polished” canopies don’t look right to me unless they’re supposed to be brand-new or on aircraft that see high levels of maintenance during peace-time…

7

I have to agree with Hans on the Future and canopies comment. I use Testor’s Cement for Clear plastic to temporarily attach canopies for painting. It is basically the same as white glue but less viscous and as a result I have more control over how much I end up using. The canopy will pop right off after you’ve finished painting.