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CARF-Models P-47
Finishing
There are many finishing methods; each modeler has his own preferences; and the level and
accuracy of finish detail is dependant on each modeler's subject aircraft. Whether or not you
aspire to compete with your CARF P-47, an accurate finish should be integral to creating a truly
miniature version of your favorite Thunderbolt.
The surface detail of the CARF-Models P-47 lends itself to some very easy 'weathering'
techniques that will add a great deal of character and realism to your finished project.
ACRYLIC paints are offered by several manufacturers; Testors Model Master
acrylics were used on the aircraft shown on the following pages.
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Acrylics offer several advantages:
• They are water-based, and so do not create a toxic cloud in your shop
or paint booth.
• They are very easy (water) clean-up.
• Can be thinned with isopropyl alcohol for Air brush application, and
thus, dry very fast.
• Result in very little overspray
• They are not 'weather-dependant' – i.e. you can paint in cold, damp weather
• Extremely opaque and the resultant pigment adds negligible weight
• Very easy to 'weather' **
• The Model Masters
• Paint 'touch ups' are virtually invisible
The disadvantages:
• **Acrylics are not very durable or fuel proof, and so must be clear coated. However, this
lack of 'durability' allows you to scrape them, scratch them, smudge them, and utilize
their flexible characteristics to great advantage when creating a realistic "weathered"
finish
Surface prep
Wipe down all surfaces with a water-based degreaser (like Simple Green
thorough wipe down with isopropyl alcohol. The aircraft surface should be absolutely clean and
dry before painting. Mask off the areas for painting using a quality auto body flexible tape and/or
blue painters tape, making sure the tape is firmly applied with no gaps. Protect the aircraft from
overspray using newspaper or other scrap paper. The paint should be applied in several coats
avoiding excess paint or build-up at the masked edges. A heat gun can be used to dry the paint
between coats (a great advantage of acrylics). Once applied and dry, the tape should be removed
carefully, peeling it back on itself to reveal a clean edge.
If additional masking / colors are to be applied, BE VERY CAREFUL not to peel up previously
applied paint. Acrylics do have excellent adhesion, but a poorly prepared surface will allow
almost any paint to lift when masked off for additional painting. It is recommended that a clear
coat be applied prior to additional masking and painting. However, if you intend to 'weather' the
aircraft, this must be done PRIOR to applying any clear coat. NOTE: IF you are not an
experienced painter, start on something small like the canopy frame.
Weathering
The incredible surface detail of the CARF P-47 allows for very easy weathering. This can be
accomplished using 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper and water. Lightly sand raised panels, inspection
hatches, rivets, Dzus fasteners and screws. The affect can be as dramatic or subtle as your
line of Acrylic paints offers accurate military colors
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www.carf-models.com
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