1:32 Dart Kitten scratch-build

[Iain Ogilvie]

I'm finally calling the scratch-built Dart Kitten model I've been building for one of my old flying friends as complete.

 

After 10 years (yes, really), and a few challenges, she's now done - I've re-done the windshield since the last photos I shared, along with a new tail skid reinforced with fine stainless steel rod.

 

I can finally deliver it to my friend, who owned the real aeroplane for a while, now and crack on with some other projects. Scale is 1:32 - just under 12"/30cm wingspan.

 

Part 'traditional' sheet styrene, with balsa core for the wings, and part CAD designed and 3D printed: engine, undercarriage, cockpit etc..

 

Build thread.

 

Hopefully you like her!

 

 

 

 

 

More to follow...

 

Iain

[Iain Ogilvie]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More to follow...

 

Iain

[Iain Ogilvie]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More to come...

 

Iain

 

 

[Iain Ogilvie]

 

 

 

Hopefully deliver it to my friend in the next few weeks.

 

If you've never had a go at scratch-building - give it a go. Really not that difficult - and hugely rewarding!

 

Blue Skies,

 

Iain

[wanders_up_the_wrekin]

Absolutely awesome build of a very elegant little aircraft. Stunning. 

[Work In Progress]

That is spectacular and deeply delicious. 'XT is on my list for a flying scale model and I'll be able to get accurate outlines and sections, but I will never be able to get that sublime fidelity of detail and finish. 

One of the best things I have seen on here in a very long time.

[shortCummins]

she is beautiful, your friend is very lucky 

 

rgds

John(shortCummins)

[Drakendk]

That’s really beautiful work!

Very inspiring! Thanks for sharing 🙂

 

[Iain Ogilvie]

Thanks for the very kind words chaps - really appreciated!

 

Several things I learned:

 

* Keep going - even when you think you can't get beyond the issue immediately in front of you.

 

* Basic design in Fusion 360 - this model has forced me to sit down and try to figure things out - and I'm a lot further up the learning curve as a result.

 

* MRP Paint - particularly the Red used here - and their super clear gloss. After decals and further coats of clear, the surface was micromeshed followed by Novus No.2 Plastic Polish - and I'm pleased with the resulting finish.

 

* Nothing beats real aluminuim like aluminium - litho plate used for the wing joint finishers.

 

* MRP Clear (an acrylic lacquer) works fine over Xtreme Metal white aluminium (an enamel).

 

* Resin printed parts are brittle - used metal (brass and stainless steel) cores where possible.

 

* Basic construction techniques with sheet styrene are still valid.

 

* The ability to 3D design and print your own parts opens up a world of amazing possibilities.

 

* I'm good at putting off the difficult stuff.

 

* I get stressed/anxious with trying to make something perfect when the model is for someone else.

 

* I probably need to build more pre-war subjects - civil and military.

 

Perhaps it might inspire more to have a go at scratch-building - if this build does that then I'll be happy!

 

I'm dedicating this build to the memory of Derek Davis, Chairman and one of the founders of our Wiltshire Scale Modellers Society, who very sadly passed away on Thursday 25th July after a long battle with Cancer. One of the most decent people I've ever met, who showed great interest in this project every time it was dragged, screaming and kicking, to a club night - with usually very minimal progress to be seen.

 

Derek Davis - photo by his good friend Tim Perry.

 

 

Off to finish some other, simpler, models I've promised to friends...

 

Blue skies,

 

Iain

[Malc2]

Saw it in person at IPMS Thornbury and it is a wonderful model, the photos don't do it justice!

Malc.

[nickthefix]

Art!

[AlxBNE]

Wow!

I can't think of anything more intelligent to say.

Absolutely lovely.

[ColinChipmunkfan]

Hi Ian, an excellent model you have really done the aeroplane justice.  I used to know one of the owners Alan Hartfield, when we were members of the Cambridge Flying Group.

Colin

[Toryu]

That's wonderful - a superb, absolutely clean finish. I wish I could build an ordinary plastic model as flawless as your scratchwork!

[Sky Keg]

This could easily pass for the actual aircraft and not a replica.  Yes, it`s done with flawless precision.  My best compliments on an outstanding project. 

 

My condolences on the loss of your dear friend Mr Davis. He made the world a much better place while here with all of us. 

Mike

[Viking]

Absolutely beautiful work, 

 

Cheers

 

John

[Iain Ogilvie]

11 hours ago, ColinChipmunkfan said:

Hi Ian, an excellent model you have really done the aeroplane justice.  I used to know one of the owners Alan Hartfield, when we were members of the Cambridge Flying Group.

 

Thanks Colin,

 

Sadly I believe Alan passed away recently - owned the aeroplane for 22 years!

 

He sold her to Dave Scott - who I've built the model for.

 

Iain

 

 

[Iain Ogilvie]

Once again, thank you for all the kind words!

 

I've been very surprised at the reception I've had online to the final photos - and the feedback from those that saw it at the Avon show at Thornbury was very positive.

 

As to flaws - they are there - and know where they are - so not flawless - but I think it's generally captured what I was aiming for.

 

Looking at doing some more pre-war subjects now - but probably from kits for the next few... 

 

Blue Skies all!

 

Iain

 

 

[SAT69]

On 8/10/2024 at 1:06 PM, nickthefix said:

Art!

Amen!