Scale Finishing Techniques for RC Planes

Primary Challenge

• The challenge of finishing a scale model with realistic details is that the finishing has to match the scale of the model. Details like rivets and rib stitching have to be miniaturized so that they do not look out of place. Weathering effects like scratches, dirt and fading can also pose difficulties. This is because the effects require techniques that will create effects whose texture and overall size fit with the scale of the model plane, instead of appearing disproportionately large or granular.

General Solutions

• When finishing a scale RC plane with details meant to mimic the original, find materials that are smaller in proportion to the scale model. This may include small-scale objects, like thread where the original has rope, or a different type of material altogether, like tiny drops of glue where the original has rivets. When applying effects like weathering, use techniques with a finer granularity or detail level than usual. For example, you may need to use fine paintbrushes or dilute paint and glue to attain thinner coats and finer details.

Rivets

• One technique for adding realistic raised rivets is to create a template by drilling or punching holes in stiff cardboard such that the holes' distance apart and diameter matches the model's scale. Apply a mixture of equal parts water and white glue to the RC plane, using the template as a guide. If you make a mistake, wipe it off with a damp cloth before the glue mixture dries. Paint over the dried rivets or make metallic rivets by mixing aluminum paint or powder into the glue mixture before applying it.

Aging and Weathering

• A scale RC plane with marks of wear and weathering generally looks more realistic than one with a pristine paint job. After you apply the initial paint and decals, add effects like exhaust stains, dirt and faded paint. To create the illusion of fading, re-paint the parts of the plane that would be exposed to steady sunlight with slightly paler colors. Study images of the full-scale airplane to find the right color and placement of exhaust stains, and then apply them to the model using multiple coats of highly diluted dark paint.