Hi Guys;
I still haven't replaced my camera so I shot a short video on my masking and detail work on my 25% Great Lakes Bipe. This is my second full job in latex paints. I am really getting to like them! Even though this is a plane I believe it would be just as good on boats, cars etc.
This one is covered in Sig Koverall, Ezekote and then shot with enamel based primer to fill the weave. I bought a cheap single stage airbrush set up from Princess Auto ($15) based on the recommendations of another RCC member about shooting latex. It works way better than my expensive dual stage aiwata airbrush. I dry and wet sanded the primer with 220 and went to 320 before I shot the white. The primer was white.
I used Benjamin Moore exterior latex white using the Vaillancourt method thinning with WW Antifreeze and using Floetrol as a reducer. The white has been on for 2 weeks and air drying. I started masking Friday night after I shot the cowl to see how the red went on. I use fine line 1/8th automotive/art supply tape so I get a clean edge and then fill in with light tack masking tape to avoid over spray. My experience is to mask the whole project to avoid over spray, don't leave the tape on long so you don't pull the base coat off. I will etch/clean the white base with a light rub of rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth before I shoot the red.
I have just about finished all my masking while the video was uploading. I expect to shoot the red after supper Sunday night and remove the tape Monday. I will shoot the red in very light coats and let it tack dry (5-10 minutes max) between coats, until I get the solid colour I want. My experience with the cowl tells me the red is susceptible to runs. The red is exactly the same paint as the white with the addition of tints for the colour I wanted.
Once I have the fuse shot and the masking removed I will set it aside to dry and start detailing the wings. Once the wings are shot I will get back to the fuse for the final details. After a month of air drying I will lightly scuff it all with 400-600 paper and then shoot Gloss Lustrekote from rattle cans, for final finish and fuel proofing. Probably done by the end of March, working on other things while it is drying. Final assembly in April and it should be on the field this summer.
I will post another short video after the red is shot and the masking removed.
It's been a fun project. I really like the classic looks of the plane, should be fun with a HO saito 180 on ignition, Pitts muffler, smoke, strobe light etc.