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How do I use Micro Mask?
Posted in: Painting, Best practices
14th June 2019
The principle is quite straightforward: as you are painting your figure or model there may be parts that you don't...
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What are my options for creating roads?
Posted in: Scenery
9th September 2022
Many manufacturers supply road rolls simulating tarmac or asphalt surfaces, some carrying surface markings others are...
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What is a trailing goods yard?
Posted in: Model Railway, Tracks
25th May 2021
A trailing goods yard was a type of goods yard commonly found at many country and smaller stations during the days of...
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Why do the British use 00 gauge instead of H0?
Posted in: Model Railway
13th April 2020
In Britain we love our 00 gauge model railways. It is the most popular gauge to model in closely followed by N gauge,...
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What is CNC?
Posted in: Design and Planning
10th February 2025
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) is a manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines to cut, engrave or...
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What is acetate?

Acetate is a term used in modelling to describe many types of plastic film or sheets and is so called because it's made from a material called cellulose acetate.

The chances are, if you like making model aircraft, you will have come across acetate before as many cockpit instrument panels are made from it.

The main advantage for model manufacturers using acetate is that fine detail can be printed on it easily and cost effectively therefore removing the requirement to use more expensive and less effective etching techniques.

Acetate is produced from natural sources and is a source of polymer. In addition to the manufacture of some model parts, it is also used in the printing trade, medical profession and in the production of some processed foods.

Posted in: Assembling and gluing

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