Pe query......

[Peej]

Just started my first build involving pe. Do I need a pe bending tool? The scale is 1/72 and some of the bits I can hardly see let alone bend! Any help greatly appreciated

[Guest]

I use a scalpel for straight edges and pointy tweezers to manipulate the shape.

[dave]

It is not necessary i used a scalpel blade, metal rule and tweezers the first few times. After that I did buy one of the Small Shop Bug hold and fold from John which makes something’s easier.

[stona]

I use a scalpel for straight edges and pointy tweezers to manipulate the shape.

Me too.

[Peej]

Thanks for the replies. I will try this way. Could save me a few quid, been looking and they don't seem cheap.

[Guest]

Long, flat pliers are also a useful tool, the kind where the inside is smooth rather than ridged. You can hold the part firmly in the pliers with the bend line along the edge and then use some other tool or a bit of wood to make the fold.

[minitnkr]

The smooth jawed pliers are a good addition for all kinds of modeling tasks. PaulE

[KarlW]

Don't buy a cheap knock off hold'n'fold type tool, I did early on and it doesn't clamp evenly, I might get the bottom ground/milled flat at some time as it's a handy size.
A small (A5) piece of black perspex for cutting on, a small diamond file for knocking off attachement points, a metal straight edge and a single edged razor blade will get you started.
My next purchase was the tamiya bending pliers, small to start then large. The small get more use for aircraft bits than anything else.
And then there was an offer on a hold'n'fold somewhere so I got that instead of a kit one day, use it more on armour than air.
I already had various diameters of rods and dowels for rolling curves.

[Guest]

Something solid to cut on and something round for curving are great tips from Karl that I would wholeheartedly second.