Episode 4 of MasterClass Season 3, “Riveting Good Times With Scale Details,” dives into one of the most transformative ways to elevate a scale aircraft model: adding realistic rivet lines. Host Joshua Orchard demonstrates how UV-curing resin can be used to create clean, durable, and visually striking rivets—especially on reflective vinyl and polished metal-style surfaces where traditional glue-and-paint methods fall short.
This episode builds on last week’s discussion about polished aluminum coverings. Joshua begins by revisiting his experiment with clear coats, discovering that using an adhesion promoter caused a disappointing milky haze. The lesson? Sometimes the simplest approach—an unmodified clear coat—delivers the best finish. His philosophy throughout the episode is clear: don’t be afraid to fail, because experimentation is key to becoming a better builder.
The Right Tools & Materials for UV Resin Riveting
Joshua introduces several essential tools and materials used to create precision rivets:
UV Cure Resin & UV Light
These form the backbone of the technique. Instead of glue, UV resin forms crisp, controllable dots that cure instantly under a UV light—perfect for reflective surfaces.
Deluxe Materials Rocket UV
A thicker resin alternative, ideal for instrument lenses, pilot goggles, or raised details that need more profile.
Precision Marking Tools
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Watercolor-tip markers create removable guideline lines.
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Rulers and vinyl tape measures provide consistent spacing.
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Masking tape and card stock help align reference lines and catch excess ink.
Detail Enhancement Powder
A metallic nail gel powder is mixed into the resin so the rivets don’t look like clear droplets but instead have realistic depth and color.
Applicators & PPE
An awl is used to apply perfect micro-dots, while safety glasses protect against UV reflections—especially important when working on polished or reflective surfaces.
Step-by-Step Riveting Demonstration
Joshua demonstrates the workflow from layout to finishing:
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Draw Rivet Lines
Using reference photos—such as those from the USAF Museum—Joshua draws scale-accurate lines using watercolor markers. These guidelines wipe off cleanly later. -
Mix the Resin
A small batch of UV resin and metallic powder is blended on a scrap card. -
Apply Rivets
With the awl, resin droplets are placed next to the guideline, preserving the reflective look beneath. Joshua likens the process to “therapy,” offering builders a calm, meticulous creative moment. -
Cure the Resin
A quick flash of UV light hardens each section instantly. -
Clean Up
Watercolor lines are removed with window cleaner, and any uncured resin can be wiped away with isopropyl alcohol.
Advanced Tips & Creative Variations
Joshua answers viewer questions with deeper insights:
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Correct mistakes easily with alcohol (before curing) or peeling (after curing).
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Adjust rivet size by changing tools or using dowels.
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Create screw heads or Zeus fasteners by partially curing resin and impressing a tool into it.
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Test adhesion on coverings like Monokote, since plastics vary.
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Flush rivets can be made with heated copper tubing or laser-cut decals.
The method works beautifully even in short work sessions, making it ideal for builders with limited bench time.
Bringing Scale Models to Life With DU-BRO RC
Joshua concludes by noting how rivet detailing adds richness and authenticity—literally bringing aircraft models “to life.” The episode wraps with mentions of the DU-BRO Build Sale and upcoming show appearances, reinforcing how essential high-quality tools and accessories are for precision work like this.
