Thanks for the positive words guys!
I've been test fitting a few parts, and thought I'd once again help feed everyone's need for eye-candy. Nothing too dramatic here just yet, but some generally nice pics all the same.
I've completed most of the nose and cockpit, except for the CF decals. For better or worse, I've clear coated it in Tamiya enamel clear (having used Coral Blue lacquer and Green enamels for top coats). As you'll see I've actually got a very good glossy clear coat on, so am debating whether or not to actually polish it up. It's not quite mirror smooth when you look at it in person, but it photographs very well. We'll see how lucky I feel a few weeks down the track as to whether I break out the compound and 12000 grit sandpaper...
I had some problems with the hi-tech decals (I think that's the correct term), in that once they set, I pulled up the protective film and the yellow BP decal came with it! I think all the MicroSol I used was still doing it's work actually.
Lesson: make sure you leave the decals for quite a while, say at least a day, before pulling the protective film off these kinds of advanced decals.
As part of the yellow decal was ruined, I was forced to cut small sections from the kit decal (MUCH lesser quality) and jigsaw it all back together over the aftermarket decal. It actually came up much better than expected, especially after the clear coat!
And the engine has been started also. The center metallic grey section is perhaps a bit too metallic, and a bit too grey... but these engines are so sparse at the best of times, unless a LOT of detail work is done, so I added a bit more metallic grey for a greater contrast of colours and hopefully a better looking engine.
I'm debating whether or not to put a wash over the engine or not - I figure these engines don't get very dirty at any point, but then a slight wash may help to bring some details out. We'll see.
I'm also starting to plan what plumbing and detail work I'll be doing. I've got a number of engine pics for reference, but they're all a bit dodgy, so we'll see. Although even if I get a few things incorrect, there's very few people on the planet who will be able to tell me I'm wrong... hehehe
I'm actually REALLY enjoying this kit! Everything seems to be going right... for once. Not like that resin dog I've now banished to the darkest reaches of my cupboard!
Lets hope this successful trend continues for the entire build!
All comments very much appreciated.
Cheers for now!
M