Thank you both! That's very helpful. I will give that a go.

That's a great looking "airtoon," Dave. Is it one you are currently working on or has it been completed? I think the Wildcat looks pretty cartoon-ish on it's own, and your version is even more so! I love it.

Thanks. I am in the painting stage on the Wildcat.

What scale is it? And do you have plans available for it?

My model has a six-inch wingspan, but there is no true scale. If you give a me a day or two, I can post a plan on this thread if that's okay.

It seems to be about the same size as mine, then (1/72). That would be appreciated. Thanks, Dave!

How did you hollow out the engine cowling? Or is it a separate piece? It looks great! I love the panel lines on the fuselage, as well. Any tricks or tips for keeping those parallel to each other and perpendicular to the centerline?

I apologize for the constant questions, but I'm really enjoying learning new things to go along with this new undertaking.

I love your Wildcat Dave.

Louis

Thanks.

For the opening in the cowling, I drilled a shallow 3/4" diameter hole with a Forstner bit using a drill press. This was done in the early block stages and then carved around it. There are alternative ways of doing that.

  I use machines whenever I can, but all of the carving is done with typical Stanley utility knives and a few basic Stanley chisels that I keep as sharp as possible with some water stones. I bought a couple of "vintage" hand planes on eBay about twenty years ago and they get a lot of use.  Another useful, but expensive tool is a Dremel, which can be rigged up as a small lathe for making wheels and spinners. I also found a very useful set of second-hand Nicholson jewelers files at an estate auction. Also useful, modified Emery boards and small homemade sanding sticks.

Thanks very much for the reply. I'm slowly adding more tools for woodworking. I do have a Dremel I use for working on instruments. I would like to see a picture (or video) of how you described using it, if it's not too much trouble. Thanks, Dave!