Hi,
One of the Strombecker models I built as a boy was the P-61 Black Widow. I managed to find two built ones and an un-built kit still in the original box. I decided to build one the same way I did as a boy; that is I would paint it with enamels and brushes. Then I would build the second using acrylics and an airbrush. Attached are photos of the models I began with, and the nearly finished "boy-style" model. I have also attached photos of the second model in progress.
I made copies of the decals from the original kit using my HP printer, but I still have not perfected my techique. This is evident when you look at the cockpit of the "boy-style" P-61. However, I am making progress in learning the technique and will probably replace them.
Impressive Joe. Your Black Widow came out great. The inkjet system for decals is not perfect. I have been using it for quite a few years now and I am still struggling with it. Keep at it though, it is worth the effort.
Lou
Hi, again,
I have made some progress on the second P-61. It is now painted and painful process of applying decals has started. I cannot seem to get the "airbrake" decals to be bright enough to show on the wings. I will make one more attempt to make a decent decal and, if that fails, I will declare a victory and retire from the field.
Attached is a photo of both P-61s that comprise this project to date. There is a third, one that will be finished with stain and varnish. I found another built model and will get started on it sometime in November...hopefully....
Note on the second P-61 that I tried a different approach to the windows. I applied white-based decals as I had in the first model, but then painted the window areas with skyblue paint. Then I overlayed the painted decals clear-based decals to create the frames. In preparing the clear-based frame decals, I used a black fine point paint pen to re-outline the windows on the copied decals. Then I re-sprayed with clear acrylic before applying the decals. I like the effect, but it may offend Strombecker purists.
Joe
Nice P61's Joe. That's a lot of glass. Interesting approach. It's my next painting project; to complete a model started more than just a while ago.
Cliff