Every steam-driven machine needs to have a place to load up the coal or wood required to warm up the boiler. The Steampunk Protostar is no exception!
This post covers the construction of a hatch cover for the model's coal chute.
I've been pondering for some time how to go about constructing this small detail.
I stumbled upon the solution just the other day while having breakfast.
Upon opening a new carton of almond milk, I took notice of the little plastic pull-tab seal. It is round, has a dome, a rim, and is just the right size for the hatch cover.
Geez, one never knows where that next model rocket part will come from!
Hurrying through my bowl of Cheerios (the heart-healthy stuff!), I took my new part downstairs to the BFTP La-BOR-atory to start preparing it for use.
After cutting off the pull ring and cleaning up its attachment point, I had to sand off a small dimple and a molded number from the top of the dome.
Also noting that the dome is not centered in the circular rim, I had to trim down the latter to make things even.
After scraping away an area of riveted paneling, I was able to attach the disc to the body.
A coat of silver enamel paint was then brushed on, after which a small part from an un-built plastic model kit was found to serve as a fine handle for the feature.
To keep the handle from coming off, I resorted to drilling a tiny hole in the piece and hatch cover itself, after which a small length of music wire was installed.
The handle feature was completed with the application of some acrylic brass paint.
Moving on...