Scale Model Aircraft Building - Basics

The first, and most fundamental, thing is to pick something you like, that you are interested in. That way you will keep your motivation throughout the build process. If you pick, for example, a civil model, but your interest is in military aircraft, and you buy the model 'because it's the only one they had', or in your price range etc, then you will struggle to get motivation to start it, let alone finish it.

The second important thing is the skill level of the kit. This varies between manufacturers - some have a better reputation for parts fitment than others. Do your research on these before purchasing your first model airplane kit. The last thing you want is to spend your money on a kit that becomes too difficult to complete, or you lose your motivation due to bad parts fitment. Don't rush out and buy a kit that has all the bells and whistles as this will have an adverse affect, start with a basic model, with a low parts count.


So we are at the point where you have decided on the model subject, and selected the kit you are going to build, but what with? You need tools!

This is where things can start getting expensive - as there are unlimited tools available for the model maker. But remember, we are starting at the beginning with the basics. You need some cutters to remove the parts, a sharp knife or file to trim the parts, glue to hold it all together, and a paintbrush (or variety) for, obviously, painting. Next you will need some paints and appropriate thinners to clean your paintbrush.

Don't try to rush the process of building your model aircraft, you are more likely to make mistakes that way, and not enjoy it. This is a hobby at the end of the day - you are meant to enjoy it.

So now it's time to start. You have your model, you have your tools, and you have your paints. You may have seen this kit that other people have built. The last thing you want to do is try to copy them, or compare your work with theirs. This will only lead to frustration and negativity if the results you get don't look as good. It doesn't matter, your enjoyment and satisfaction in what you have done is the only important thing.

So let's get to work. Start off by studying the instructions, and finding the parts on the sprues. Familiarise yourself with how the manufacturer has drawn the diagrams, and instructs you to put it all together. Go through the whole manual so you are familiar with it, and how each section fits together. If you follow the instructions step-by-step you shouldn't run into too many difficulties, but you need to understand what they want you to do before you put the glue to it. Once you are familiar with the instructions, take each section at a time. You will likely find that each section has a number of parts in it.

It is generally recommended that you wash all the parts before you start. When they are made, a release agent is used to easily take the parts out of the moulds. You want to remove this, as it can stop the glue and paint sticking correctly. Use warm soapy water for this, and rinse it off properly. Don't use hot water as this can distort the plastic. Normal dish washing soap is fine for this.

Any parts that become one structure, such as an engine block, can be assembled before painting. Other, smaller parts, you may find easier to paint while still on the sprue.

Carefully cut the parts off the sprue with either a pair of side cutters or a sharp knife. The use either the knife or file to smooth the point of removal. You are then ready to glue. There are a variety of glues available, but we will assume you are using basic polystyrene cement. This glue works by melting the plastic parts together creating a strong weld. This glue only works properly if the parts are clean and free of grease and paint.

Before applying any glue, check how the parts fit together (dry fit) as a test run so you are familiar with any attachment points that require glue, and how to fit the parts. This will prevent any mistakes being made by having to redo after gluing.

Use something like an old CD, or milk bottle top to put a little bit of glue into. Then use something small and pointy to apply the glue. Cocktail sticks are ideal for this, but equally you can use a pin etc. Get a small amount of glue on your stick and then apply this to the joining edge of one part. Then put the parts together. You will have a bit of time to move the parts to fit correctly if needed, but then leave the parts for the glue to fully set.

When it comes to painting, there are a few more things you need to know. Firstly, there are different types of paint that react with the plastic and each other differently. This is commonly referred to as the strength. So for example, Acrylic paints are mild. You can use these over bare plastic and other paints with no reactions. They are generally easy to use and easy to clean up after. I would recommend these as the paints to use when starting out. The next common paint in modelling is Enamel. These generally come in small metal pots. These can react with acrylic paints, and plastic if not used correctly, so a plastic primer is recommended before using these. You can use Acrylics over these with no problems once they have fully dried. The next paint type is Lacquer. These again will react with the acrylic paints and plastic, but also with enamels as well. These should be reserved for painting areas that other paints generally won't be used, like the body of a car. Again, you can use acrylics or enamels over these with no problems.

With painting, the important thing is to get an even coverage. If the paint you use doesn't quite cover the area and you can see the colour of either the plastic or paint below, know as bleed through, wait for it to dry and add another coat. Remember, it is better to apply a number of thin coats that one thick coat. Familiarise yourself with the paints you are using and their respective drying times. Don't try to go back to a part that is still drying as you will end up in a mess. If necessary, leave it until the next day before you proceed. This requires patience, but rushing causes mistakes. Any attachment points need to be free of paint. If you have any paint on that area, carefully remove it with either the tip of your knife or a file before applying the glue to get a nice strong joint. If you have painted the part on the sprue, then touch it up before attaching it to hide this.

The last thing you may have in the box is the decal sheet. To some, these can be the difference between a nice clean model aircraft, and one that ends up in the bin, but that doesn't need to be the case. Cut the decal from the sheet using your knife, or a pair of scissors, and then put the decal sheet to one side. Place you decal into some warm water for a few seconds until all of the backing paper has fully absorbed water. Then remove it and lay it on a flat surface. You may find that it has curled up at this point. This is normal. Leave it for 30-60 seconds and you should see this flatten out. Once this has happened it should be ready to use. Rub your finger over it and ensure the decal moves freely on the backing paper. Put the backing paper roughly in the area you want to apply the decal. Carefully hold the decal in place with your finger and slide the backing paper from under it. You can then position the decal exactly where it needs to be. Once you have it positioned, use a tissue or soft cloth to remove any excess water and then leave it to fully dry. If you have a lot of decals to apply, it's an idea to do them in stages to avoid damaging them.

So that's it. You are ready to build your first scale model aircraft. Remember, don't rush it and most importantly enjoy yourself.

So You've Decided to Take Up Scale Model Aircraft Building?

A guest post by Roland Cisco

After years of the 9 to 5 work day grind and the endless hours of boredom,  I decided to take up a hobby I did long ago and previously lost time to pursue. Now that I have the time, I've invigorated my hobby of building scale aircraft models from plastic kits.

I chose plastic mostly because it was readily available, and there was a vast and expansive amount of kits to be built. I just never dreamed I'd end up spending the amount of money for the "stuff" you need to absolutely do it right.

Some of the materials include small tools, files, knives, brushes, tapes, maskings, table top space, lighting, and a camera to record the beautiful job you completed. I also invested in an "ok" airbrush, and now have 5 to choose from including single action and dual action. I have a compressor, chalk for weathering, various washes for rust creation and of course Future Floor Wax for making application of so many additional things to a finished model. Then there are the hundreds of bottles of both acrylic paints and enamels for that perfect color need.


It may seem like there a lot of supplies to get started in scale modeling, but you'll love every minute of this time spent at the construction table! For those considering the hobby of model building, my advice is to start with some inexpensive model kits, some brushes, paint, good light and comfortable chair, and just dive in. You will find your first builds will be just that and first builds will probably find their way to the trash can. After the third or fourth build,  you will see some really good quality emerging and that's when you'll invest in your first air brush. The fun really starts with an air brush in hand!

The first thing you should do is develop a methodology of removing the parts from the sprue sets where you clip the pieces free, and find the best method of removing any excess plastic still remaining on the piece. This can be accomplished with such simple things as smooth finger nail Emory boards or the edge of an Exacto knife blade.

Once your parts are removed, cleaned and you're ready to build a section or area of a model, develop a comfortable method of applying the glue. Some use a toothpick for small dots and some people buy the glues with the thin needle applicator. You'll become comfortable with one and will probably stick with it forever. After gluing, you'll do some painting and be well on your way. There are so many countless ways to improve this hobby, and with time and research, you'll get more and more information online to enhance your skills. This is high level overview of my experience as there are countless other things to do to make a model a real quality one of a kind piece. This is a good place to start and get your feet wet in this rewarding hobby.

In conclusion, if you've got the interest in a great hobby with wonderful people all over the world and a willingness to exchange ideas, definitely explore scale model aircraft building. There are endless possibilities for you and many forums on the internet for help and improving your technique. You'll also find you'll make countless friends in the process.

The Art of Building Plastic Model Airplanes - Part 3 of 3

Great movie
 

The Art of Building Plastic Model Airplanes - Part 2 of 3

Very useful pieces of information

How to Build a Plastic Model Airplane

Plastic model airplane building is a hobby that appeals to a wide variety of people and age groups. From the youngster building his or her holiday gift to the veteran re-creating a piece of history. Following the basic instructions is generally a good place to start, but there is a whole world of knowledge beyond the instructions. Here are some tips for creating a better-looking model:

Wash the parts first. The parts are made by injection molding, and are covered with a release agent to help un-stick them from the mold. This agent will prevent paint from sticking well to your model. Wash the parts in soap and water, then air dry. You can use a hair dryer to help.

Cockpit. Assemble and paint the cockpit next. The cockpit will be permanently enclosed within the fuselage halves, and will be nearly impossible to paint later.


Minimize glue. Use only a thin line of glue on each side of the fuselage, or each side of the wing. Use only a dab to attach small parts. You can apply the glue with a pin to have better control over the amount of glue. Excess glue gets onto the surface of the model and creates lumps which must be cleaned up with sandpaper.

Alignment. Take care to line up the wings and tail relative to the fuselage. A crooked airplane is easy to spot. Use tape to hold the larger pieces together to check the alignment, before you apply glue.

Gap Filling. Sometimes after gluing there will be gaps between pieces. A gap between the fuselage halves, or where the wing joins the fuselage, is common and easy to spot. Fill these gaps with putty, or with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue). When the filler is dry, smooth with sandpaper.

Paint with Brush. If painting by brush, get at least 3 sizes (wide, medium and fine). Try not to overlap your brush strokes, or repaint an area that is still wet. Wait until the paint is dry then apply another coat if necessary. After painting, clean your brushes thoroughly with the recommended thinner, and store them upright in an old cup.

Spray Cans. Paint delivered by spray can will give a smoother finish than the brush. Cans cool down as they are used which causes the paint flow to slow down. Place the can in warm (not hot) water for ten (10) minutes or so to fix this.

Airbrush. The airbrush is the ultimate tool for painting model airplanes. It is like a spray can with much more control. The air pressure and paint volume can be controlled (in some types, simultaneously) allowing the user to paint fine lines at will. If you plan to keep building models, it is a worthwhile investment.

Canopy. The clear plastic canopy has frames that need to be painted. This can be done with a fine point brush and a steady hand. A better option is to use masking tape to cover the canopy, then use a sharp hobby knife blade to cut and remove tape from the frame portions. Then paint, and after drying remove the remaining tape.

Gloss Coat for Decals. The water-slide decals (markings) that come with the kit will look much better if applied onto a gloss surface. A clear gloss overcoat should be applied, then after drying apply decals.

Flat Coat. If the airplane has a naturally flat (matt, non-glossy) surface, then after applying decals, paint with a flat clear coat.

Scale Model Aircraft Building an Overview and Details of the Hobby

When the Wright brothers realized their initial successful flight in the early 1900's, the entire world was altered. At last, it was proven that man could soar like the birds! That primary airplane wasn't perfect and the flight was not very long, but this was incredible! Ever since, millions of people have flown millions of miles around the globe.

Scale Model plane Making became a common hobby not long after the first real planes were built. Enthusiasts from all social classes, yound and old and income levels participated. Early scale model makers were fascinated with the Wright Bro's and had to be a part of it all.

In the beginning, there were no model plane model kits on the market and the complete model had to be made by hand. Though quite simple in design, these early models really had the ability to fly! As time when by, flying machine kits were developed for home hobbiest to assemble. The early kits were sparse and only included basic parts, but no power source. Most used twisted rubber strips and could only fly short amounts of time.


Steam power was another means used propel scale model flying machines. By using model scale, flash steam power plants, flights could be sustained for longer times and distances. This was a major advancement over way of powering models, but not nearly efficient enough to please the model builders of the time. Over time, electric engines were developed that were just the right size to be used in a scale model airplane. This amazing innovation rearranged everything for the model plane world.

There are truly two different types of scale model aeroplane that are available. One is the non-flying or display kind. These are for admiring only and are usually secured to a holding stand, or they may be suspended the ceiling. These model plane are most often created in a scale of 1:48, although a variety of scales are available.

Static models can be made quite easily and come in a number of ready to assemble, predecorated, simple designs. They are usually constructed of balsa wood, plastic, lightweight metals or even paper. The majority of these are imitations of actual airplane both military and civilian.

Some advanced model kits require the model maker to have more more complex. These model kits require the complete construction of the aircraft this includes painting the craft. Display aircraft models aren't provided with engines and really can't be fitted with one. They simply aren't meant to fly and are not made to be able to.

Flying scale model airplanes are substantially different from non-flight models. Quite often they have little resemblance to any real aeroplane, these models are created simply for flight, not to imitate any particular craft. Flying plane models are available in three classifications, free-flight, control line and RC. Of the three, remote control model plane are maybe the most used now.

Model aeroplane with the ability to take flight quite often borrow their form from vintage flying machines. They are usually constructed with a frame of lightweight balsa covered this is done with cloth, decorative paper or plastic film. At the same time other styles are made using sheets of lightweight balsa wood to create a stronger body. The models wings are sometimes a combination of wood and styrofoam, making it easier to construct larger airplane models.

Power Sources for model aeroplane come in a amazing myriad of sizes and styles these days. There are electric and gasoline motors and even miniature jet power engines available. The kind and style of motor is dependent on the size and weight of the model plane it will propel. The most common way to keep control of the motor on a model aircraft is with RC technology. The modeler can control the speed, how high the airplane flies and maneuver the model with with a simple flick of his finger.

A less used type of power for model airplane is the control line. The plane model is tethered to a wire that is controlled by the pilot. For most planes of this type, the flying distance is restricted only as long as the wire allows. However, the flight time is usually much longer than other styles of flight. The downside is that the model will only fly around in circles.

Some scale model makers today prefer to construct vintage, free-flight model planes. They require the model plane builder to know a bit more about the workings of flight than newer model kits, adding to the challenge. Much like the Wright brothers, these model builders have a need to put their aeronautic skills to the test. Each part is carefully crafted to exacting specifications or the aeroplane will be no more than a display model.

What Do I Need To Get Started Painting My Model Airplane?

Building model aircraft is a popular hobby, with many people making a range of different things, from scale models of historic airplanes to re-enacting battles with miniature figures. In order to add the finishing touches to these, then model builders use a number of methods, such as airbrushing or painting by hand to make them look more authentic.

The airbrush approach has become one of the best options for those creating scale model airplanes, due to the precision, type of finish and quality of finish that can be accomplished. One key tip from the modelling community online is that it's important to make models that appeal to you, because that way the interest will keep flowing. Similar tips come when it comes to your chosen method of adding the finishing touches.


Airbrushes come in all shapes and sizes. If you are new to the field there is a huge range available, many companies provide a starter airbrush kit for beginners, as the choice on offer can be a daunting one. An airbrush is a spraying device that uses pressurised air to operate. The tool mixes the air with liquid paint, which results in a fine mist. Single action airbrushes deliver paint in a steady manner, whereas double action can be used for more precise and detailed work.

There are also different ways in which the pressurised air is produced. It can either be done via a canned propellant, or with a compressor. A compressor takes energy from electricity and converts it into kinetic energy which pushes out the paint and helps to create a mist. Compressors allow the user to produce a steady stream of paint or to release it in quick bursts.

One item that is also a good consideration for people doing a lot of spraying is a spray booth. This device helps make the use of spray paint safer, as it extracts dangerous fumes from the room and as such prevents any physical repercussions as the ingredients of the paint can be harmful to humans.

It is definitely worth looking into purchasing a real spray booth as opposed to fashioning one yourself. Professionally produced spray booths are a safe option because they meet required standards, whereas making one yourself can have unforeseen repercussions, with tales within the online community about people who have made their own but had explosions or fires due to the wiring of a homemade fan and so on.

As well as having all these items it is important to remember that in order to produce these finishes, it will be necessary to have the paint you want to create the finish with. There are a great number of different choices for airbrush painting and as such it is important to choose the sort that will go with the material of the model you're making, in order for it to form the right kind of coating. Some models are painted from the inside with the detail as the first layer and the base coat next. Most however have a base coat and the detailing above it.

There are other parts and accessories to consider, however as a beginner it is worth looking into a starter airbrush kit that has all the basic equipment so that you can practise your airbrushing and see what you can achieve before stepping up and buying higher end goods. These airbrush kits often contain all you need, such as an airbrush, a compressor and needles needed for spraying.

The Art of Building Plastic Model Airplanes - Part 1 of 3

A very informative clip

Choose From a Large Selection of Model Plane Kits

There are a lot of different model plane kits that are available to choose from. Every one of them will have different features and be a different size. Some people prefer to have the smaller ones while other people like to put together the larger ones.

People of any age can be excited about getting new model plane kits. There will be different skill levels for each one. People will be able to choose one that is at the level that they are at.

Most people are not going to start out by picking something from a difficult level. If they have help from someone who is experienced, it will not be a problem but a lot of people like to do these kinds of things by themselves. They want it to be something that they can do as a hobby.


The person putting the model plane kits together will be able to match all of the parts by following the directions. They will be able to paint the parts before or after it is assembled. It is going to depend on which type of model a person will be putting together.

Model plane kits are going to make great gifts for almost any occasion. The recipient will be able to have an activity that they can do without involving others. There are many different ones that people like to collect too.

Some people will put these model plane kits together in one setting while others are going to take their time putting them together. There are many different sizes, styles and models that a person can buy. Model plane kits are not all that is available. There are cars, trucks and many more.

It is important to get something that is going to be of interest to the person who will be putting it together. They like to build model plane kits to see what the finished product will become. Even though they can see a picture of what it will be when it is finished, they think it is cool that they can create something like that.

Not only can a person purchase complete model plane kits but they will be able to purchase pieces that go along with those kits. Sometimes when putting these kits together, people can break parts or paint them wrong. Once they are glued together, it is difficult to get them apart without ruining a part even if it has been glued to the wrong spot.

There are a lot of advantages to putting together model plane kits too. These can be very relaxing to some people. It can also teach children, teenagers and adults how to put together certain things.

Some people are fascinated with certain types of model plane kits. They might be interested in a certain brand of airplane or model type. They may collect every model for that type of airplane or just put together models of airplanes in general.

Parents will often get their children excited about these models. Some of them will actually work and do different things after they are put together. Some of them are meant for sitting on a shelf to show off what a person has accomplished.

There are many different kinds of models and model plane kits that are quite popular. Young people and adults like to build things. If they can build a smaller version of something that they wish to own someday, it will satisfy their desire to own it for the time being.

When purchasing model plane kits, there are many different ones that can be chosen from. It is important to get one that is going to be easy enough to put together that someone is going to finish it. There are many skill levels and many different models to pick from.

Model Aircraft Kit Making - Simple Weathering Guide

A guest post by Frank LeGrand

For this guide I have taken the model Spitfire that I built when I was compiling my Model Kit Making Guide, and spent some time weathering where necessary to aim to make it look a bit more real.

As when making a model from the start research is one of the first things to do. I checked out the web to find some pictures of the most common places to find wear & tear on Spitfires.


The first things I had to do were remove the propellers, canopy & exhaust nacelles.

The main wear and tear from pictures I have seen appears to be around the nose, wings roots, and cockpit and around any moving parts on the wings.

A good tip that I do is paint any major wears areas silver (or whatever colour the real aircraft would be BEFORE painting). In this case I painted the nose silver and the wing roots. I dry brushed some silver paint around the cockpit where the canopy would have been sliding open & closed, and also on the tail.

Once the silver paint on the nose & wings was dry I then painted the camouflage colour over the silver. I let this dry, and then I used a sharp blade to scrape away the camouflage paint where necessary to reveal the silver below. This is very effective and I feel looks a lot more authentic than painting silver over the camouflage.

Once this way done, I used a wash to highlight oil & dirt on certain areas.

The wash that I used was basic watercolour paint, in this case black. Just paint the areas you want to highlight and the black wash will naturally run into any recesses. When dry, carefully clean off the excess wash with clean water. I used a cotton bud and a fine brush to do this.

I also painted the exhausts and the underside of the aircraft to show signs of dirt.

I also painted the leading edges of the propeller blades silver.

That's it, once cleaned up and the props & canopy replaced the model was done.

Notes:

Aim for realistic effects, remember the scale of the model and think about how much wear & tear there would actually be. Resist the temptation to do too much, STOP when it looks real, this is the point it is finished.

Practice on an old kit or bits of plastic to get it right BEFORE trying it for real.

The wash I used was water based because the kit was painted in acrylic. Make sure the wash IS NOT the same type of paint as the kit or things will go wrong very quickly. You could use a chalk wash if you wish instead.