Custom-painting a Freewing Spitfire

[Michael]

I bought this used Freewing Spitfire, with the intention of painting it as a 1948 Israeli Spitfire. The full-size plane, flown in the late 1940s, is still in good condition and flyable today.

[Michael]

First step was to carefully remove as many decals as possible, and then paint those areas with grey primer paint. The primer is to make sure the surface texture is uniform before final painting.

[Michael]

The only change needed to the shape of the plane was the top-rudder outline. I simply cut of the old one, then glued on a properly shaped foam replacement, and then sanded it to shape.

[Michael]

I masked the canopy so painting the canopy frame would be easy.

[Michael]

Then I started painting. I used water-based matte and satin paints from Home Depot, and then covered the model with water-based clear gloss coat.

[Michael]

I then decorated the model with various coloured trim and custom decals. The canopy came out looking good.

[Michael]

Next is programming the radio stuff, and then to wait for a nice weather day to fly it.

[sihinch]

Nice job Michael

[GuyOReilly]

So cool looking.
Great job on the paint.

[Frank v B]

Neat!

Looks like the black one you had about 10 years ago.  Sometimes a paint scheme just won't go away.
Should be easy to see in winter clouds.

Frank

[Michael]

Successful maiden and 2nd flight today. Thanks to Glenn N. for his help and tips. Once my plane safely airborne and trimmed, he brought his Spitfire up to fly with me, both flights.

[sihinch]

Very nice Michael