Thanks, linclogs. I will give it a try.

I have a gram scale and weighed the whole sheet when I bought it--I was surprised too because Skyloft looks very light. The price is definitely right, but Koverall and Thai Silks won't set you back much either.

Another material I want to try is Polyspan, which is half the weight of Koverall and reportedly very tough. Problem is FAI Model Supply seems to be the only source, and by the time you pay postage it's $21 just to try out a sheet.

Several people have reported using silk from Thai Silks and have not reported any knots. What they sell actually comes from four different countries.

I completely agree about the plastic toy-like look of films. It really spoils the effect for me. Something magical about doped fabric or paper drum tight over a wood frame, and it gives the modeler a direct connection to full scale aviation. "Cub yellow" dope is the same stuff they used in Lockhaven, made by the same company, and it is still sold at local airports. Jim