aa1a

My Feedback: (4)

I am covering my Duelist wing white on the bottom and orange on top. I cover the bottom first then the top creating an overlap. I leave extra covering to pull out wrinkles then trim it when I am finished. I want to get a nice straight line at the leading edge. I don't want to cut into the leading edge because that defeats the purpose of overlapping the top and bottom. Anyone have a trick to get a straight line where the 2 colors meet?
Thanks,
Jim

eddieC

My Feedback: (2)

I tape a metal yardstick to the film, and overlap 1/2-3/4". I don't put the overlap centered on the leading edge, as it's too easy for the film to pull up in flight. Just me. 

karolh

I use a method similar to eddieC with the overlapping straight cut film's edge somewhat under the leading edge.

vertical grimmace

My Feedback: (1)

I think the trick here is to run your iron down the LE of the wing right along where you would like to trim the line. Then use a brand new razor blade, and trim the covering. It takes a steady hand, and practice, but you can get a very clean cut this way. If it is not to your liking, you could always make a strip (3/8") of the dark colored covering and apply it after the cut, to straighten and clean up this line.

Maybe this is what you really wanted to see though? A tool! Never used one, just know about it. The razor blade is all I have ever used. http://www.harryhigley.com/58JFT.htm


Good luck

FlyerInOKC

My Feedback: (6)

I got one of these they work pretty good just make sure you cut the starting point at an angle to get started.

Gray Beard

My Feedback: (-1)

Me too. I start my covering with a straight edge with the overlap over the LE so there is no reason to trim, then work towards the TE. When I do need to trim I do as eddie but use a strip of balsa to cut across.

aa1a

My Feedback: (4)

Thanks everyone, for the replies. I like the Idea of using the straightedge taped to the covering. I've used scissors in the past and the results were not pretty.
Jim

Weasel Keeper

My Feedback: (16)

That Higley tool is great! Use it all the time to trim edges along the contour of the surface being covered. Money well spent if you do any covering work.