Author: B. Boss
Edition: Model Aviation - 1986/01
Page Numbers: 73, 164, 165, 166
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Control Line: Scale

Bill Boss

Overview

If you want realistic rivet patterns and skin-panel lines on CL scale models, one of the oldest, easiest, and quickest methods is to roll small indentations into the model surface rather than add raised rivets. A dressmaker's pattern-tracing wheel (available at sewing-supply shops) is an ideal tool for creating flush-rivet patterns.

Tools & materials

  • Dressmaker's pattern-tracing wheel (various diameters/thicknesses available)
  • Soft lead pencil
  • X-Acto (or similar) knife
  • Flexible plastic ruler and/or French curve
  • Straightedge
  • CyA-type instant glue (for sealing scribed lines)
  • 1/32-in. scale rivets (optional; Sig catalog)
  • Epoxy (for simulated round-head rivets, if desired)
  • 500–600 grit wet‑dry sandpaper
  • Slightly damp cloth

When to apply

Apply rivet and panel-line patterns when the model is near final finish — George Gaydos recommended about two or three spray coats of paint away from the final finish.

Step-by-step procedure

  1. Lay out major panel lines on the model with a soft lead pencil until the positions are correct.
  2. Scribe the panel lines into the model skin with an X-Acto and a flexible plastic ruler as a guide. Keep the cuts shallow to avoid cutting through the skin.
  3. Immediately after completing a panel line, apply a bead of CyA-type instant glue along the cut to seal it and help prevent splitting later.
  4. Draw pencil guide lines where the rivet pattern will go.
  5. Using the dressmaker's tracing wheel and a straightedge, roll the rivet indentations into the surface. Use a highly flexible ruler or French curve for curved surfaces.
  6. For round-head rivets, either install small 1/32‑in. scale rivets or simulate them with small beads of epoxy.
  7. Remove pencil marks by very light dry-sanding with 500–600 grit wet‑dry paper, then wipe down with a very slightly damp cloth.
  8. Apply the final coats of paint. These last coats help subdue the sharpness of the indentations for a more realistic appearance.

Tips & cautions

  • Practice on scrap or practice structures before attempting this on a good model.
  • Keep scribed lines shallow — do not cut through balsa or the model skin.
  • Seal scribed lines immediately with CyA to reduce the chance of later splitting from stress.
  • Tracing wheels come in different diameters, thicknesses, and tooth counts; shop around to find wheels best suited to the scale and surface you are modeling.
  • A flexible ruler and French curve make working on curved surfaces much easier.

Further reading

  • Bob Wischer's RC Scale column, Model Aviation, October 1985 (page 133), contains a good write-up on alternate methods for making panel lines.

Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.