I finished a 1/144 scale Type M Caquot observation balloon from Reduced Aircraft Factory Shapeways shop.
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I selected a model in the Black, Strong and Flexible material. This stuff is a big improvement over the much more porous White Strong and Flexible material and well worth the extra couple of dollars for the amount of time it saves in surface preparation.
I primed the model with white gesso.
Painting the basket and lines was the not the hardest task, but it was the messiest.
After applying 2-3 coats of the gesso and letting it dry thoroughly (like 24 hours between coats), I proceeded to paint the model. The base coat was yellow ochre with the highlight panels done a light yellow called Lemonade.
I'm reasonably happy with how it turned out. Given the rarity and expense associated with the Wings of War balloons, this was a good substitute for those out of print models.
It should get lots of work on the game table.
for more details and pictures, here's a link to the blog.
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's first experience with 1:4800 scale naval models.
