Superb work there DDawg. I'm no where near that level. Maybe when I get old enough (still in my 50's).
This is why I started the thread ...
anyone can paint nice skins with a proper layer'd template (once the master working in layers) ...
The hardest part is creating your own template, is creating a decent mask set, and to use layers efficiently ...
It takes time to create your own, but once you have a good template, painting a whole squadron of planes (of the same) is quick and easy.
I don't have the time to invest to spend on making a template, from a pre-painted plane by someone else ...
It's best to have a clean slate ... from the designer of the plane, and his fist initial rendering with the parts cleanly laid out.
I have found that now I only work about 8-12 hours per week ... (Compensated with free Golf - as often my body can handle it) I have less time to do all the things I did working 60 hours per week or more, then come home, work on my planes, play around with some games, go camping, go fishing, go motorcycle riding ... etc.
Now, if I do anything more than 2, or 3 hours ... I am laying down on the couch, and napping ...
I am not in bad shape physically ... I can still walk 18 holes ... but, I do use a push cart instead of carrying my clubs ...
The older I become, the more I hate the fact I am turning into my dad! But, I am stress free, do what I want, when I want for the most part ...
After all, I am still married ... And I am a lucky guy ...