panel removal - there has to be an easier way :(

you are on good way .. few more holes per each side . I cut off panell on my fw 190 without holes .. i just tickened plastic from other side and than vith knife ( and good hand) cut off.

If I were doing it, I'd probably drill a couple of larger holes near the center of each panel, cut the divider between the holes out with an X-Acto, and then start using files to cut the panels out. If you are going to drill a bunch of holes to get the panel out, that will certainly work, but I'd recommend moving in toward the center slightly and then using a file to enlarge the panel holes. Going all the way out to the edge with drilled holes can give your hole a scaloped look or cause it to be slightly big by the time you clean up the edges.

I've used a panel scriber (Micromark sells one) and a ruler to creat a deep groove before cutting with an X-acto. If the plastic isn't too thick, scrapting 6-7 times will get you 80% there.

Thanks for the replies. I'm still working on it. I'll use the tips and post a pic when I'm done. Now to find some screen to fit inside

Yeah, mate -
A straight edge and the back of a number 11 X-Acto blade would do.
Or as the above post says, a jewellers saw would be perfect. It's like a coping saw, but a heckuva lot smaller.

I tend to just scrape away with a hobby knife, and after a few passes, I increase the pressure. Generally works very well, especially on flat pieces like that shown.

hmm intersting I have never used a jewelers saw but seen them before. How would you use it for this??? Thread the blade through a hole then attach the bow to it??

You can drill a starter hole then use silk thread and use it like a saw working real slow, it cuts right thru plastic with little problem from plastic build up.

QUOTE: Originally posted by Peridexion A Jeweler's saw would make short work of this. This is just the kind of task they are made for.

I can't believe I forgot about that Oh well you live and learn ... and forget ... and learn again Anyway here is the end result after drilling more holes and tapping a straight edge razorblade (thin) between. It's all messed up but next time jewelers saw.



Probuilder thats a good idea, kinda like a piece of small cable. Where do you get silk thread BTW? Will dental floss work?

JoAnn Fabrics should have it, or any fabric/sewing store of repute.

I tend to use my Dremel/Proxon tool: using a drill as a fraise. The last edges can be done by scraping your knife (exactoblade) or file. But you'd have to have a precision drilling tool (since I got one, I don't ever want to do without: it really speeds up modelling)
Other way for the start is turning your blade in the center on the point of the blade. The further you get, the larger the whole is.