Masking is complete, and now it’s finally time for the panel line application step.
This time, I tried the “apply from the back” method before painting.
Can I pull this off even as a beginner… ? My heart pounding, I start the work !
What is a panel line?
Panel lines are tapes used to recreate body seams and hood boundaries. They are an essential step in translating the details of the actual vehicle onto the scale body.
Pandora RC is currently selling ” Panel Line Tape (VGP-621) ” in various thicknesses. This time, we’ll try applying this tape from the underside of the body.
My impressions after actually applying it
I definitely think it’s way easier to apply it from the front side (lol). Trying to apply it to the painted back side while “avoiding touching it as much as possible” was really tough!! ※Touching it can leave oil residue, which could lead to painting mistakes…
I managed to stick it on somehow, but next time I’ll try using a wooden ear pick or something to apply it. I need to avoid touching the body with my hands as much as possible while still applying firm pressure. (Still trying to stick it from the back, lol) Oh, and tweezers would be good too!!
Finished Impression and Key Points
The finish of panel lines is something you can’t fully know until you actually paint it. If the crimping is weak, paint can seep in and make the lines less distinct…
Then there’s the risk of the masking peeling off along with the paint when you remove it… (It actually happened lol)
Next time, we finally move on to painting!
The Z33’s panel lines are now complete.
My first attempt at “under-coating” had me nervous, but I’m already excited to see the finished result after painting!
Next time, we finally dive into the painting process. I’ll share my beginner’s tips and discoveries, so stay tuned!
