How to Apply Tissue Paper to a Balsa Wood Model Airplane

On model airplanes and other crafts, tissue paper can easily tear or crease if applied in the wrong way.

Balsa wood is a light, easily cut and reasonably strong material ideal for making model planes. To create a realistic finish to the craft without buying expensive silicon skins, you can apply tissue paper and then paint it or leave it in its natural color. Unfortunately, gluing tissue to wood is fiddly, as the tissue can easily rip or crease during application.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Glue
• Craft knife
• Towels
• Atomizer
• Pure alcohol

Instructions

1. Measure the pieces of tissue paper for each part of the model airplane with a measuring tape then cut them out with scissors. Try to use large strips of tissue paper for each part rather than lots of smaller pieces or one large sheet for the whole airplane.

2. Apply dots of glue to the area where you plan to attach tissue next, and spread them over the wood using a craft knife as you would butter on toast. White glue is suitable, but glue sticks make the spreading easier.

3. Dampen the tissue paper slightly by either placing it between two moist towels or spraying it with an atomizer. Make the tissue damp but not wet.

4. Hold the tissue paper taut between both hands, and place it gently on the glued area. Pull the paper firmly to even out any creases or air pockets.

5. Trim off any excess pieces of tissue using scissors or a craft knife, and leave it to dry.

6. Rub a small amount of pure alcohol onto the seams between the tissue paper with the tip of a finger to blend the edges together.

References

• Easy Built Models: Applying Tissue for a Seamless Finish: Tom Hallman