Hello everyone.

After many years away from the hobby my knowledge of modern finishing techniques needs some updating.

I recently started building a gas powered airplane which after some practical considerations has become an electric powered build. I started with the old school method of using dope, tissue and talc. As of now the wing, flaps and tail are in talc and ready for a blanket covering coat. Normally I would continue with some Randolphs silver followed by whatever colors I wish to use for base and trim and then the final clear coats. In the past my 600-650 square airplanes gained approximately 3 1/2-4 ounces after applying silver, base, trim and clear coats.

Suggestions would be most appreciated as to any alternative finishing type and technique that could be used that's a better way to go than finishing up with dope.

Thanks, Mike

Thank you for the comment about weight gain when putting on silver and all the rest. I have an electric that's been on the bench for way too long, so it is going into the air without even silver on it. My intent is to finish the finish later. It is nice to know how much weight it will gain in the process.

if you do this you need to let the Rustolum cure out at least two weeks before flying

Polishing, yes.  Flying - why?

Ken