Fabric and paint covering options
 

Until now I've done all my planes with Monokote or Coverrite.

For my Citabria I'm thinking of going with a painted finish.

So I've been reading enough to give me a bit of a headache.

Do I go with Polyspan? Silkspan? Koverall? Laminating film? something I can pick up at the fabric store?

What are my sealing options for fabrics? does it have to be nitrate dope?

I'd like to use latex for the color coat with a clear to protect it from the glow fuel.

RE: Fabric and paint covering options
 

On my scale planes, I cover with Solartex, available from BUSA, prime and paint. On my WWI planes I use latex applied with a foam brush, and seal with PU. Once you have used Solartex, it will be hard to go back to the plastic coatings. The Solartex is applied just like Monokote just use a tad less heat. Solartex is much easier to apply especially around curves and corners.
Painting is a little more work but it gives you a one of a kind finish. Gary at Get Stencils.com can cut you any type of stencil for further detail decoration. If you are going to paint the solartex, its better to get the natural color, its opaque and the seams almost disappear.

RE: Fabric and paint covering options
 

Get the color you want/need, then have a quart of latex color matched to a sample of the covering. Waterbase polyurethane is fuel RESISTANT. Let it dry for a minimum of 7 days and do not let the residue remain on the finish for over 4 hours and you will be OK. For fuel PROOF, use Ultracote clear.

RE: Fabric and paint covering options
 

Could you explain the residue bit for me please.

Thanks

Ed S

RE: Fabric and paint covering options
 

I think he's talking about the exhaust residue.
It's harder on the paint than raw fuel..

I was hoping to find a low odor alternative to dope for attaching and sealing the covering.
Solartex sounds good but it's somewhat expensive at $20 for a 6ft roll.