balsa is used in many common modeling application

Balsa wood is a lightweight wood used by many modelers for its high strength-to-weight ration and the ease with which it is worked. balsa is used in many common modeling applications from bridge and tower building for engineering contests to remote-controlled model aircraft bodies. While balsa is well suited for building frames for models the frames need to be covered in order to complete the look of the model. A widely used covering technique involves placing a skin on the models made of tissue paper. Using tissue paper retains the lightness of the model while creating a model cover that can be easily painted, completing the look of your model.
Instructions
Remove any rough spots on the surface of the model to be covered with the tissue paper using the sandpaper.
Lay a sheet of tissue paper onto a flat surface large enough to cover a side of the model. Place the model on the center of the paper and trace a line one-quarter inch around the model's edge. Remove the model and then cut along the line traced into the tissue. This tissue will serve as the covering skin for that portion of your model.
Use a paintbrush to brush the model with the adhesive where the tissue will be placed. Apply the adhesive lightly, as too much will soak the wood, causing warping. Brush all areas where the adhesive will be placed, not just that of the cut tissue. Wait 2 hours for the adhesive to dry on the balsa surface.
Spray the tissue with a light mist of water. The tissue should be slightly damp to the axtmdjbfzzc touch, but not wet. Place the damp tissue onto the model, with the extra tissue falling over the edges. Using the paintbrush, brush a light layer of adhesive over the tissue where it meets the wood surface beneath. Fold the overhanging tissue along the sides of the model and brush the overhanging tissue with the adhesive as well. Because the tissue is damp, the adhesive will combine with the water and bind to the already placed layer of adhesive dried onto the model. Wait another 2 hours for the tissue and adhesive to dry and then repeat the process to cover the remainder of the model. The drying tissue shrinks onto the model, creating a smooth surface suitable for painting.
Tips & Warnings
The clear dope adhesive emits fumes that can be dangerous when breathed for long lengths of time. The covering process should be completed only in a ventilated area.For more related article comes from http://www.balsafactory.com/.