Clamping, stands and fixing parts
With Geoff Coughlin (April 2026)
It’s funny how a project can spur you on to get a tool or other helpful bit of kit that’s just what you need at the time and this model stand is just such an example.
I have seen several different model stands for use when building your model – an extra pair of hands if you like that keeps your model off the bench and secured safely while you carry out whatever task it is that’s needed at the time.
As you can see here, I am building the big Echelon 1:32 scale English Electric Lightning F.6 and it’s about to go into the paint shop. It occurred to me that I will need to support it for long periods from now on as the all-metallic finish is built up and even during some of the weathering – enter this Aircraft Model Stand by Brightstone Forge…
Searching the web I saw this one (bought from Amazon), among several different available and although some are cheaper (this one was about £20.00GBP), I wanted something that looks solid, has supports with sponge to protect the model and was completely adjustable. This bit of kit doesn’t disappoint, its so easy to assemble and is delivered in a small box straight through your letter box.
All you need to do is look at the sample and clear instructions to see how it all goes together and I built mine in about 7 minutes – easy peasy, really it is that simple. Four screws are also included that you could use to screw the base to your workbench, through the pre-drilled holes in each corner of the base. I don’t think this feature is very helpful for my kind of modelling.
I think the grey parts are 3-D printed and are very sturdy and well moulded. The silver looking bars are aluminium and very solid. The self-adhesive sponges you cut to size and attach to the top of each of the four separate curved stands.
Adjustment is easy using the big grey screws and small metal wing nuts.
I love this bit of kit and I’m all set to go now and can’t really understand why I haven’t bought one of these before now…
Geoff C.
NOTE (24 April 2026):
Hi Geoff
I just saw your article on SMN re- the stand by Brightstone Forge. I have several similar stands from other companies which are all great pieces of kit. However, I have noticed that the foam strip supplied to protect the models when resting on them can stick to the model surface if they left resting for any length of time. With a new finish I have had paint lift, and I have had decals (fully sealed) lifted by them if the model is placed on one for transportation. I now place a layer of paper towel or tissue on top if they are on there for extended periods such when applying decal etc.
This is the only issue I have had using this type of stand, which otherwise are excellent tools. The sponge on some seems to be more prone to the issue mentioned than others.
Just a heads up.
Regards
Tim
