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FEATURED TIP
A neat idea to shape screens and avoid damage
all-1
Recently, I was working on Tamiya’s 1/12 scale YZR-M1 MotoGP motorcycle with Tamiya’s extra detail set. Included in the detail set was plastic mesh to cover the radiator opening. The instructions included a template for the mesh.
    First, I placed a piece of thin masking tape over the pattern and traced the shape on the tape, 1. After transferring the tape to the mesh, I cut out the shape.
    The problem with tape and mesh is that it’s easy to damage the fine nylon strands when you pull the tape off. However, I dip a cotton swab in paint thinner, then roll it over the mesh, allowing the liquid to seep into tape’s adhesive, 2. Then I can easily remove the tape, 3.
CURRENT TIPS
Foil adhesive good fix for styrene-strip building
FSM-RT0410_03
I find adding stringers and ribs to the inside of aircraft models frustrating; it is difficult to ha...
Distilling dust removal
I have a simple, foolproof method for getting rid of dust on displayed aircraft canopies and windscr...
Find your marbles to clean brushes
Here’s a quick, easy, and effective way to clean paintbrushes: Add a handful of small, round glass m...
Do not simulate weldings, weld it!
The best way to recreate weld seams on plastic is to weld with plastic.I take a piece of stretched s...
Better decals through technology
In this day and age, technology is just a fact of life. Modeling is no different. I recently bought ...
Jewel cases have clear advantages
Steve Wellman’s tip about CD jewel cases in FSM April 2008 is good. I have an added use for the case...
Instructions under glass
In Ignacio Allende Casasempere’s photo for his tip on workbench storage in FSM December 2009, anothe...
Construction calculator helps
A great tool for scale modelers is a “construction” calculator. These electronic tools  make it easy...
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