Scratchbuilt 1/32 Dart Kitten

By Iain Ogilvie

I'm finally calling the scratch-built Dart Kitten model I've been building for one of my old flying friends complete.

After 10 years (yes, really), and a few challenges, she's now done - I've been re-doing the windshield today, along with a new tail skid reinforced with fine stainless steel rod.

I can finally deliver it now and crack on with some other projects. Scale is 1:32 - just under 12"/30cm wingspan.

It is part 'traditional' sheet styrene, with balsa core for the wings, and part CAD designed and 3D printed (engine, undercarriage, cockpit, etc...). Here is my build thread.

I'm usually a little disappointed with my finished models - we start with an image in our minds-eye of how you want it to look, and the end result often doesn't match that.

In this case it's pretty close to what I wanted to create - something that captures the look of the original and construction techniques of the period.

Several things I learned:

Keep going - even when you think you can't get beyond the issue immediately in front of you.
Basic design in Fusion 360 - this model has forced me to sit down and try to figure things out - and I'm a lot further up the learning curve as a result.
MRP Paint - particularly the Red used here - and their super clear gloss. After decals and further coats of clear, the surface was micro-meshed followed by Novus No.2 Plastic Polish - and I'm pleased with the resulting finish.
Nothing beats real aluminum like aluminum - litho plate used for the wing joint finishers.
MRP Clear (an acrylic lacquer) works fine over Xtreme Metal white aluminum (an enamel).
Resin printed parts are brittle - used metal (brass and stainless steel) cores where possible.
Basic construction techniques with sheet styrene are still valid.
The ability to 3D design and print your own parts opens up a whole world of amazing possibilities.
I'm good at putting off the difficult stuff.
I get stressed/anxious with trying to make something perfect when the model is for someone else.
I probably need to build more pre-war subjects - civil and military.

Perhaps it might inspire more to have a go at scratch-building - if this build does that then I'll be happy!

I'm dedicating this build to the memory of Derek Davis, Chairman and one of the founders of our Wiltshire Scale Modellers Society, who very sadly passed away on Thursday 25th July after a long battle with Cancer. One of the most decent people I've ever met, who showed great interest in this project every time it was dragged, screaming and kicking, to a club night - with usually very minimal progress to be seen.

Hopefully you like her!

Scratchbuilt 1/32 Dart Kitten

By Iain Ogilvie

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