Re: [GZG] Working with Balsa

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big problem is that I discovered this issue after the initial prototype
models were built and assembled. Sanding the models would be near
im[ossible at this point. The main bodies of the ships are made from the
thicker square rod or or rectangular cross sectioned blocks. This
allowed me to bulk up the design quick.

This is all valuable info that I am cataloging for the next batch. I
learned a lot on the initial build-up.

-Eli

-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: Robert N Bryett <rbryett@gmail.com> 

> The traditional material is "sanding sealer", usually a clear 
> nitrocellulose varnish-like coating that serves two purposes: 1) To 
> fill the grain. 2) To raise the "nap" of the wood surface and make it 
> brittle and easy to sand smoothly without tearing. 
> 
> You should be able to get it at any DIY/handyman/woodworking shop, 
> although you might need to buy a litre or so. I used to be able to 
> get it from model-shops in small tins back when I used to build balsa 
> and tissue model aircraft, but I haven't been in one for years so I 
> don't know what's available now. 
> 
> However you only *really* need to use sanding sealer if you're going 
> to apply a clear finish, which is unlikely if you're building model 
> spacecraft. Assuming you're going to paint, any white acrylic 
> undercoat will do. Apply a coat (no need for a spray, any brush or 
> roller will do), let it dry *thoroughly*, and sand until the 
> undercoat is only left in the grain. Repeat until the desired finish 
> is achieved, and then apply a final coat and sand *lightly*. 
> 
> If you are making your parts from flat sheets of balsa, you might 
> want to consider doing your grain-filling and sanding on the entire 
> sheet, *before* you cut out your parts. Consider also undercoating 
> and sanding parts of the ship before assembly. 
> 
> Best regards, Robert Bryett 
> 
> On 08/09/2008, at 04:18 , emu2020@comcast.net wrote: 
> 
> > Hello all, I am reaching out to the group for some help with using 
> > balsa some custom ships I'm doing. I am having a problem in the 
> > finishing because invariably there is a wood grain that shows 
> > through the paint. Is there a way to effectively seal the finish 
> > model that will allow me to give my completed models a smooth
finish. 
> 
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