1/32 Trumpeter F4F-4 Wildcat Part III 

by Ed Fuquay 

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Warning: decals are a lot easier! Nevertheless painted markings are more realistic and probably a lot easier to weather. I chose to paint mine on this Wildcat for two reasons. The blue on Trumpeter's decals is a bit pale and  I really wanted to stay away from the shiny plastic like finish and the thickness of the decals. It has been a pretty good experience. I had to remember my 9th grade geometry! The only thing you need to know is how to draw a five point star. First draw a circle of the appropriate size, then draw the diameter line and with a protractor and from the center of the circle draw a line ( a radius) at 72º out to the circumference. Then take a pair of dividers measure the length of the line that would from in between where the diameter line and the radius at 72º intersect the circumference. Then divide the circumference in five segments. then draw your star.

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The whole process takes about an hour to mask and paint the white circles on the fuselage. Placing the star masks is an exercise in patience (Chinese puzzle). You have been warned! It is a lot easier to apply decals, as they can be positioned with ease. Masking tape does not slide easily. I used the triangular segments of the circle that were left over after cutting the star to help me decaling the latter. I carefully placed three of these segments in the circle until I was pleased with the location of the star. Then I placed the star mask  and carefully removed the  segments. Then I burnished the tape down to prevent bleeding of the paint under  it. I sprayed the  Insignia Blue lightly until I got the desired effect. I diluted the blue in a mixture of laquer thinner and Metalizer Sealer to cut back a bit on the flatness of the paint a get a smoother finish.

After allowing the paint to dry for a few hours, I removed the masking and I was quite happy with the end result. However, I have to redo one of the stars as I failed to take the time to align everything right. I was very excited about this small project and so anxious to get it done that I did not see that one of the stars was at the wrong angle to the center line of the fuselage. I know I am being picky..., but, If I were not...  wouldn't someone else be? I am really enjoying this Wildcat and the best part of it is that I do not have to worry about decal silvering! Once again, HAPPY MODELLING!

Ed 

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Photos and text © by Ed Fuquay