Yet more masking tips.

wonwinglo

SMF Supporter
Joined
Apr 18, 2004
Messages
6,754
Points
113
First Name
Barry
More people have masking problems than anything else,paint creep causing unsightly marks that have to be removed is quite common but all of this can be easily avoided with just a little preparation,one of the oldest systems to mask a large area is also one of the best if done carefully,this involves soft soap and ordinary shelf paper,firstly cut the shape from the paper that is required,one example that comes to mind is the scallops on a wings leading edge,quite tricky to do even with fine masking tape and rarely successful.

Next turn the paper over and with some soft soap paint this onto the paper right up to the edge,you will need to handle the masking paper very carefully as it will be quite fragile at this stage,if necessary lift the paper with two paint scrapers supporting the outer edges as you lift the paper into position onto the wings surface.

Next working outwards carefully smooth out the surface removing any wrinkles or air bubbles,a few traces of the soap will exude but do not worry, as this can be easily removed with a damp cloth and then dried off with a tissue before spraying or brush painting.

Leave the paper to dry out for a few hours before painting,once dry remove the paper by dampening with a sponge,then wash off the soap,done carefully you will be rewarded with a nice clean edge,the advantages of this system is that the dampened paper will take the intricate double curves.

As always experiment first on a test panel before using on your new model to get the feel of how it all works.
 
S

scottysonfire

Guest
Hi there

A bit of a noob question, but was is "soft soap"? Is it a particular brand of soap or does it refer to liquid soap?

Also... by "shelf" paper are you talking about regular office paper? like an A4 sheet from a prinetr or photocopier?

Thanks for your help

Scott
 
Top