On my first kit I covered the wings and controls surfaces before hinging them. This made it easy to cover and it seems like the hinges are holding up well. However, I have read here that some people like to hinge first then cover.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of each way? In a way it would be nice to hinge first so there is no change of getting thin CA on covering. Also you can mark the hinge locations on the wood and the covering would cover the marks.

I have done it both ways. I think it depends on how you like to do it, what is easy and best for you. I always cut the hinge slots and trial fit everything before I cover. Then you can cut a slot in the covering where your hinge goes and then add glue. If you use non-ca hinges, I use a straw to draw up some Epoxy and then you can pinch the straw so it slides right into your hinge slot. Then just squeeze out some glue all the way into the slot, giving you a good bond.
Sometimes I like to glue and pin the hinges before I cover, you just have to cover around the hinges, but you can really sand nice and get a nice tight gap.


I'm sure others have a lot more to add, as there are a lot of neat tricks out there.

Just my $.02.

I always cover first.

Cover first here

I like to cover first to get the best seal around control surface edges and the such.

Cover 1st

Majority rules. Thanks!

Cover 1st

Airplane_boy