Using Wet Strength Tissue Paper with Model Airplanes

Build lighter, stronger coverings with wet strength tissue paper (WST). It stays strong when wet, shrinks drum-tight, and resists tearing during sealing and painting.

New to WST? Start here: What is Wet Strength Tissue Paper? | FAQ

Why Use Wet Strength Tissue Paper for Airplanes?

Unlike regular tissue paper, WST won’t tear when damp or buckle under glue and paint. It allows smooth shrinking, strong adhesion to ribs and spars, and a lightweight but durable finish — essential for free-flight and RC models. Plus, it’s easier to patch and lasts longer than standard tissue coverings.

Covering inspiration — adapt the workflow with wet strength tissue paper for durable, lightweight results.

Materials You’ll Need

Wet strength tissue paper and model tools

Wet Strength Tissue Paper	White or coloured; cut oversized panels
Model frame	Balsa or ply airframe (wing, tailplane, fin)
Adhesives	Thinned PVA, dope-based adhesive, or glue stick
Sealer	Nitrate/butyrate dope or water-based varnish
Tools	Mister, brush, knife, sandpaper, clips

Step 1: Prep the Airframe

Sand smooth: Round off sharp edges of leading/trailing edges and rib caps; remove splinters that could puncture the tissue.
Dust off: Wipe the frame with a dry cloth — dust will weaken adhesion.
Seal high-wear spots: Apply a thin coat of sealer to the nose, tips, and hinge areas for added durability.
Dry-fit: Cut tissue panels with a 10–15 mm (⅜–⅝″) overlap around each bay/frame.

Step 2: Attach the Tissue

Tack one edge: Brush a thin line of adhesive along the leading edge or spar. Lay tissue and gently burnish.
Pull & wrap: Lightly tension across the bay and tack the opposite edge. Keep tension even — no stretching.
Work rib by rib: Add a tiny amount of glue to rib caps; press tissue with the brush tip or finger cot.
Neaten corners: Miter overlaps neatly to avoid bulky folds and trapped air.
Repeat other side: Cover underside first, then top (or vice versa) for consistent shrinkage.

Shop Wet Strength Tissue Paper

Step 3: Shrink & Seal

Mist to pre-shrink: Lightly mist with clean water; let dry flat. WST resists tearing and tightens evenly.
Optional heat: Use low heat at a distance to chase sags. Keep the nozzle moving to avoid hot spots.
Seal coat #1: Apply a thin, even coat of dope or water-based varnish. Let it cure fully.
De-nib: Lightly sand with 600 grit if needed; wipe off dust.
Seal coat #2–3: Apply 1–2 additional thin coats for a drum-tight, fuel-resistant finish.

Classroom-friendly option: water-based polyurethane/acrylic. Solvent-based dope requires good ventilation and PPE — always check safety data.

Step 4: Reinforce & Finish

Patches: Add cross-grain WST patches at hinges, tips, and the nose before the final seal coat.
Panel lines & decals: Draw directly onto sealed tissue or apply decals between seal coats for a smooth, blended look.
Weight check: Use multiple ultra-thin coats instead of one heavy coat to keep weight low.

Wrap Up

Using wet strength tissue paper gives your model airplanes a professional finish that’s durable, lightweight, and easy to maintain. From beginners in classrooms to experienced hobbyists, this is the go-to covering for creative builders.