Kotare Models 1/32 Spitfire Mk.Ia Mid x2

To kick off some discussions on the new forum, I'd like to share my two Kotare Models Spitfire Mk.Ia Mid builds from 2023. These were my only completed projects for the year, and I found them to be fantastic kits. Currently, I have a third one in the pipeline, patiently waiting for an engine set and a few other components once they are released.The initial build belongs to the Standard Edition boxing and was built for Hobby City Wellington. Although the store is now closed, you can catch a glimpse of it at Hobby City in Mt Wellington, Auckland. This build was executed strictly out of the box, without any aftermarket parts. I adhered to Kotare's recommendations for paint, using Tamiya exclusively, and followed Hobby City's request for weathering with Ammo products, as they carry Ammo in their store.







Moving on to the second Spitfire, it's the Brian Lane Edition, once again assembled straight from the box without any aftermarket additions. The interior green and camo colours were again Kotare's specifications, while other random colours from Vallejo, Ak, and Ammo were used on the build. I've posted the build-up on YouTube too if anyone is interested, YouTube - FoxThreeScaleModels.

The weathering is just brilliant! I’ve been wanting to add a Spit to the stash but have yet to pick one up. Decals are gorgeous. What did you use for the radio wire?

Cheers! When you do pick up a Spitfire, I highly recommend Kotare Models Spitfires. The decals are fantastic, they are the best on the market for sure, there is no need for paint masks.

I used the Uschi Rig That Thing Thread. Comes in three sizes, standard, fine and super fine. I think I used fine from memory.

A great example of how OOB is all that is needed to produce a lovely looking model. The paint colours look good too, there's so many variations for Dark Earth across various kit manufacturers, but Kotare seem to have provided a pretty decent set of instructions for getting there with Tamiya paint.

I agree Phil, the Kotare mixes look pretty decent on the plastic. I am temped to use them on my Border Lancaster when I pick it back up.

Super nice works Dave. They look amazing in every regard. You've definitely sold one, to my wish list at least!
 

Dave wrote:

Cheers! When you do pick up a Spitfire, I highly recommend Kotare Models Spitfires. The decals are fantastic, they are the best on the market for sure, there is no need for paint masks.

I used the Uschi Rig That Thing Thread. Comes in three sizes, standard, fine and super fine. I think I used fine from memory.

Thanks for the hint on the Uschi Rig That Thing Thread! I never heard of it, bu am definitely interested. I have one or two biplanes in my stash ant the moment, which may benefit greatly from this stuff; and want to do more in that subject area in the future, as well.

Beautiful work, I’ve spent some time just gazing over the photos looking at how you’ve weathered them. I particularly like the exhaust staining, it really looks like the result of a realistic process rather than a swipe with a paintbrush. An inspiration for when I pluck up the nerve to tackle mine!

Thanks Nick,

I've posted the second build on YouTube in three parts. There are a few minutes of me applying the exhaust staining and how its done.

I just put mine on Trademe if anyone wants one cheap (yeah right, I'm a greedy SOB)