I'm about half way though my second kit( Had a lot of ARFs before I started building) which is a GP P-51 and would like to start learning scale and would like to know where I should start like what is all involved to make rivets and such the plane that I will be using to start getting acquainted with scale will be a TF P-47 any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm hoping to get a lot of how to's for learning thanks again if anyone would like to email ([email protected] ) me personally for one on one or to take me under there wing to show me the way that would be great.


Thanks
Troy

Troy, I think you've made an excellent choice for your first effort at really scale modeling. The Jug is reportedly and excellent flyer and looks to be reasonably accurate in the outline department. Your first order of business should be to decide to what level of scale you want to take the Jug and also to start gathering all the references you will need to do the job properly. I recommend keeping things simple the first time and using the airplane as a basis for learning the techniques necessary to build a really fine scale model. Some of these would include fiberglassing, panel lines and rivets, making tight fitting gear doors, possibly using scale gapless hinges on the control surfaces, etc. Only you can decide how much detail you want to put on the airplane but, like I said, I recommend you keep it fairly simple the first time. Of course, building a really tight and straight airframe should also be of utmost importance. It really simplifies the finishing process if the surface underneath is done properly. I, and I'm sure many others, would be more than happy to give you advice and explain techniques if you have questions but knowing is only half the battle. You have to jump in and do the work to really learn how it's done. Please feel free to post any and all questions. And to those responding, please feel free to respond here in the forums even if you mail Troy personally. This could be a really great thread for all to learn from. Regards, Chad.