FineScale Modeler – October 2019

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Once the decals were settled and dry (more about that online), they
were sealed with Dullcote. I redrew panel lines over the markings using
a spare vinyl plastic template as a straight edge rather than tape to
avoid inflicting damage to the decals.

The lengthwise panel lines on the underside were easy to draw. Again, I
used thin strips of tape to apply the pretty straight lines. The panel lines
were now done and sealed with Dullcote to prevent smudging.

I added rivets and fastners where needed with a draftsman’s lead holder

pencil. Marked templates of tape kept the spacing uniform.

As mentioned in the sidebar, I ended up removing the canopy twice. When

reattaching it the second time, I wanted the sliding hood to be open. I

made a canopy copy by stetching a heated piece of Squadron’s clear

thermoform over a clay mold, cutting the hood free, and painting it.

I added the pitot tube, radio mast, antenna wire, and insulator. Position and navigation lights are stretched sprue melted with a candle. Finally, I was
able to place my Wildcat from Squadron VC-58 on its display rod mounted to a base depicting it in flight above its carrier, the USS Guadalcanal! FSM