Help with tissue covering

[DarkFire]

As a long time foam builder, I am excited to announce my first balsa plane has been ordered!! it is the Dumas L-19 , kit #236. 18 inch wingspan, it is rubber powered and tissue covered. It doesn't seem to have a large following which is a little bit disappointing, but I think between RD Groups and the FT forums I'll be fine.

I have one question after reviewing all info on stick and tissue building. When I cover the plane, I understand I trace the perimeter of the part with glue (50/50 elmers glue and water from what I've read) but do I trace the ribs or structural struts under the tissue too?

Thanks,
Dark

 

[roversgonemad]

I only stick down the perimeter. I have found when I adhere tissue to every member, it makes it more difficult to shrink.

 

[DarkFire]

Ok, that makes sense. Thank you!

 

[TexMechsRobot]

Two schools of thought here. I tend to glue it to every surface that is on the same level. Most things in this hobby are figuring out what you like to do.

Here's a video series I started (I still have 5 more videos to complete) that show my methods for building stick and tissue. It isn't the only way but it's how I do it.

 

[DarkFire]

Thanks! The videos will probably be watched before anything happens in my build.

 

[Hai-Lee]

You could dump the tissue and go for one of the lightweight shrink films instead.

Have fun!

 

[Craftydan]

One thing that might help . . . Blue/purple "disappearing" glue-sticks.

The glue softens with rubbing alcohol.

Typically, I paint the wood with a bit of the glue dissolved in alcohol (mixed live like an oil painter), and let it dry. When it comes time to apply the tissue, I hold it to the wood by a corner and dampen it with alcohol -- acts like ironing on monokote, sticking as it dries. Don't like how a piece laid out? Dampen it again to loosen the glue, and gently move the tissue around.

Easy-Peasy