On 1/35 armor models?

I am in the middle stages of painting my Timaya M4 Sherman and I would like to add some ropes to tie down things such as jerry cans, storage boxes, spare wheels etc. What do all of you use for such a thing?

Also, any tips on getiing wood such as that found on axe handles and storage boxes to look more realistic? Would you paint the overall piece a dark brown and then dry brush a lighter shade over it.

Heavy sewing thread is the least expensive. You could also check thread available from ship modeling sites/stores.

For ropes, look in a model store for the components for model ships, they usually do coils of thread (in various thicknesses)..These are perfect...Jim

I use sewing thread - some are more tightly woven than others, so pick and choose. I usually put a drop of white glue on my finger tip and pinch the thread and pull the thread through my fingers to coat the length of thread so that it does not split and fray.

Heavy thread here, too. I usally pull the thread taut, knot it and then hit the knot with a tiny drop of CA to set it. I use white glue on the ends, like Scott.

Shaun

hi if you use the tread from ship modelers , pass it through a candle flame to take the hairy bits off , i seal the ends with super glue then cut it , this leavesa nice clean edge and does not fray , use the lightest colour you can buy , then stain with cold tea or coffie , no need to paint it cheers ian

If you've got the nerve......walk into the nearest dressmakers shop...most reasonably sized towns have one, and browse the threads.....There is on called button hole thread which has a fantastic rope effect perfect for 1/35th, and no stray 'hairs' that need 'greasing' down.

Vinnie

I picked up a tightly woven, (no frizzies), fabric thread that is an olive drab color.

The spool was set out in the weather for a couple of weeks, rain, shine ---didn't matter, and it faded wonderfully.

It can be used as is, or if desired, a thinned black wash can be applied to grime it up. The wash also shrinks the thread, so if the initial tie down is too slack, a couple of washes tightens it up.

Good luck.

Steve

I just go to my Fly Tying box and get some thread out of it. It has the great advantage to be "stable" (I mean that once in place it remains exactly the same without loosening)...
Ciao

If you have access to any medical supplies, braided nylon or silk sutures are ideal. They are very strong, and the beauty of them is that it is very easy to pass the needle underneath whaterver you are tyiing to.

Patrick