I build “Star Trek” models, and when I use putty for gap- and window-filling or bodywork, the putty gets in places I’d rather it didn’t. It is nearly impossible to remove all the putty from cracks and crevices. My simple solution: Use premium electrical tape as a mask. I put the tape on either side of the area I want to fill, then sand the filler down until the black tape shows. Then, I peel away the tape and sand the putty flush with the model’s surface. Two important tips: Don’t use 3M painter’s or modeling-specific masking; they don’t come off cleanly after they’ve been covered in putty. Use only premium electrical tape – it’s more expensive but it stays put better than the cheap stuff and doesn’t leave sticky residue.

Tip submitted by:
Shawn O’HalloranLas Vegas, Nevada