Had picked up this paper model last time I was in the UK (2 years ago) - comes complete with a pretty detailed interior -

I was thinking about using the included interior as a master for manufacturing scratchbuilt details or alternatively - just scaling to 35th scale - (original is 25th scale) and printing the hull interior (floor and walls) to match my Tamiya internal dimensions and scratching the rest

Anyone out there tried this themselves - any tips or tricks to be aware of?







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The colour looks wrong in your reproductions - it's not pure white, it's a cream colour for Panzer interiors. Aside from that, I suppose it could work for through-the-hatch detail, though printer paper will never have the depth that painted plastic will. I'd have to see the finished product - looks like a heckuva project. I've never been good at paper models, I'd like to see this one done done up!

I build a lot of card models and converting one to plastic is certainly possible.

Before you scan a given page for reduction, use a ruler and put scales along two sides, perpendicular to one another. Then scan the page, reduce, and reprint. You can then measure the scales to determine if your reduction is correct in both dimensions. Some printers do not reduce proportionally, so this will alert you to that problem.

Card models often call out different thicknesses of cardboard for laminating parts, to create the correct scale thickness. When you create the parts in plastic, use the correct thickness of plastic or metal sheet stock. Remember to scale the thickness to your reduction!

In most cases, you will want to use round stock for round parts instead of trying to roll plastic tubes.

Do not assume the model is 100% accurate. Card model companies flub accuracy just like plastic model companies, so check your references and proceed with caution.

Do not assume everything fits perfectly in the original model. Card models often require trimming, fitting, and tweaking just like a plastic model. If something does not fit right, the model itself could be wrong. If possible, hunt down a build up review of the kit which will alert you to issues in advance.

Good luck!

-Doug

Hey Doug,

Mate you are a real gentleman, thank you very much for the tips - I will certainly keep that very excellent advice in mind, when I tackle this one.

Greg