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Main Menu Home About Browse images Signup Lost password? News Links Help User Login User Name Password View By Hangar View By Aircraft Comet Douglas Skystreak View Details View All Switch Aircraft Users Aircraft David Duckett FLYBOYZ Sky9pilot

Comet Douglas Skystreak by David Duckett. Viewed 620 times. Build Thread Next Prev Click image to return. Image Comments David Duckett 27-Feb-09 21:45 marlinus64 27-Sep-10 04:36 Douglas made some beautiful, elegant aircraft. I am still learning the basics and patience is one of the hardest to master. My question to Mr. Duckett and the other pros on VA is this: How much time do you spend on shaping and sanding? I know it varies from model to model, but on average, how much time should I plan on devoting to this stage? I imagine most of the masters spend more time on sanding and shaping than I do on an entire project :)I have my 3rd balsa kit on the table (the Hellcat) and I would like to get a feel for the time and techniques involved in making a "JFB". Thanks in advance for everyones help. David Duckett 27-Sep-10 09:32 They say sandpaper is a modeler's best friend but it can be your worst enemy. Sand only as required to make everything smooth. If you make it solid like this Comet kit which Simpleflyer (Al) gave me, expect to sand more than on the open frame Hellcat you're working on. I never keep track of how long it takes to actually build something because I spend far more time looking at it so saying it took X amount of hours would be somewhat misleading. Sanding is not over for me until the paint goes on although that does sometimes show some spots that need a bit more. I keep sanding blocks and small pieces of sandpaper on the table most of the time. You're preparing a balsa wood surface for either paint or covering, neither of which hide any mistakes. The point of sanding and shaping is to make sure there aren't any mistakes. marlinus64 27-Sep-10 11:14 Thanks very much for the info. I have ideas as to what I need to do and how, but it is always easier if someone with experience can offer their guidance. I see the results of everyones hard work and talent, but sometimes what I see doesn't translate to my hands. I know that changes with practice and time, but it never hurts to have a pro pointing youin the right direction. Please sign in to comment on this image.