Dark blue on. Now just the underside to do with black.

Lots of masking going on.

Yes, it's used more tape than some of the larger models.

A question Guys :Is it better to remove the masking whilst the paint is fresh,
and therefore still soft, or wait until it is fully hardened?

Sorry Chris, I forgot to say the model is looking good!

Quote from: Red Lancer on January 26, 2021, 06:33:22 PM
A question Guys :Is it better to remove the masking whilst the paint is fresh,
and therefore still soft, or wait until it is fully hardened?

Hi Howard,
I find it better to remove the tape ( pulling away) from painted edge whilst paint has not fully hardened.
It works for me.
Cheers, Kevin

PS. By the way Chris, a lovely build.

Here is the completed model.
Interesting that you remove the masking tape when the paint is not fully dry Kevin. I usually leave it for 24 hours but I do get flaking on the edges sometimes. I think I'll give your method a go next time.

Quote from: Red Lancer on January 26, 2021, 06:33:22 PM
A question Guys :Is it better to remove the masking whilst the paint is fresh,
and therefore still soft, or wait until it is fully hardened?

I think it depends on the paint you are using.
I use Mr Colour, thinned with self leveling thinners
The tape comes off as soon as I've cleaned the airbrush.
Looks OK to me, (from a distance).
Haddock.

Hi Chris,
I find that I try to remove the tape once it is 'touch dry' but still soft enough to leave finger marks in it if handled.
You need to work away from painted edge and make sure you don't inadvertently touch any new paint.
I also agree with Haddock, differing paints behave or dry in their own way. So, you need to know you preferred paint and judge that moment when it is still 'soft'
Cheers,
Bigkev

Excellent advice chaps. I'll certainly be removing the masking tape earlier in the future.

A very nice looking helicopter Chris. I've nearly always removed masking tape when it's still tacky had problems in the past if left until dry.

Bob c

Another great helo Chris.
Kev, how do you get around cockpit glazing etc. if you remove the tape whilst the paint is still tacky? Do you remask when varnishing or leave the tape on those areas?

Hi Chris (H),
Good question. Answer is if, the paint scheme goes over some glazing then I do not remove the masking whilst still not fully cured, but I do add a varnish coat as soon as is possible, and then remove the masking.
Secret really is not to allow the paint to harden (say a few days) but as soon as you feel you can apply a varnish then do so.
Paint continues to cure over hours/days, generally most by 24hours. It is down to finding 'that happy place' in the paint drying time and acting.
Cheers,
Bigkev

Good info Kevin - thanks.

Yep, thanks Kev.