Cutting out the parts

Cutting out the parts from the plastic sheets is one of the first steps in building a plastic model. This step requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that the parts are cut out cleanly and accurately. Here are some tips to help you cut out the parts:

1. Never remove parts from the sprues by twisting or pulling the part off. Using a high-quality sprue cutter/nippers will allow the best results and easy clean-up of the parts.

2. Using a flat faced jeweller's file, will allow easy removal of any remaining attachment points from the sprue.
3. Cleaning parts with more complex shapes like curves, a scalpel knife can be used to cut way excess, or the blade edged used to scrape away material.
4. After using a file or a scalpel knife to remove the material away, you can use a sanding sponge like this one from Tamiya to lightly sand everything smooth.
5. Extra detail points can be added to improve the look of the model. Here as mentioned in Kotares instructions, you can drill out the lighting holes from the cockpit framing bulkheads. As the holes are varies in sizes different diameter drill bits were used.
6. To speed up the drilling of the holes on the cockpit framing bulkheads, Tamiyas Electric Handy Drill was used.

In conclusion, cutting out the parts from the plastic sheets is an important step in building a plastic model. By following these tips, you can ensure that the parts are cut out cleanly and accurately, and that the model looks finished. Remember to take your time, use a light touch, and be patient. Happy modeling!