How to Build World War I Model Airplanes

Build a World War I model airplane.

World War I vintage model airplanes are a welcome hobby to anyone who has a special place in the heart for aviation in general and World War I aircraft in particular. These models range from beginner assembly skill to advanced assembly skill. Beginner models have larger plastic pieces, while advanced models have many small parts requiring more attention to detail while following the model instruction sheet. Regardless of which skill level the model may be, the assembly tools and items needed rarely change.

Things You'll Need

• Hobby knife set
• Finishing sandpaper (120 grit)
• Plastic model glue
• 1 package flat toothpicks

Instructions

1. Open the model assembly instruction sheet and place it in a location where it may be viewed with minimal exertion, and so it may be followed all the way through without the need to reposition the instructions and diagrams, keeping your hands free to hold glued parts together until the glue sets.

2. Cut parts out from the plastic parts holder using a razor-sharp hobby knife. Try to cut each part from the grid as close to each piece as possible without allowing the knife to cut into the plastic part itself. Use 120-grit finishing sandpaper to smooth the edge of the part to be glued to its companion part.

3. Apply a small amount of plastic model glue to the wide end of a flat wooden toothpick and then use the toothpick to gently spread a small amount of the model glue to the surfaces of both parts to be joined together. Allow the glue to air dry for just five to 10 seconds and then press the parts together firmly, holding them together until the glue is able to hold the parts together itself without the parts moving. If necessary, hold the parts for a minute or two.

4. Set glued parts in a warm, dry location and allow them to dry thoroughly as the model instructions set forth. Don't get in a hurry.

5. Assemble all parts together in order, from first step to final step, and then apply any model paints and decals desired on your World War I model airplane. Pay special attention to the propellers when painting them so they match the colors used on actual World War I aircraft. Refer to Internet images of your chosen World War I aircraft model as a guide in making your model look as realistic and true to the original as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply model glue sparingly to prevent unsightly glue smudges on the exterior of your model airplane. If you do get some dried glue smudges, use some finishing sandpaper to sand the smudge smooth before painting.

• Model glue fumes may cause serious brain damage if inhaling the fumes over an extended period of time. Always keep the room ventilated by opening a window or a door to prevent toxic fume buildup.

References

• WWI Modeling Page
• Megahobby: Model Building Tips