Thread: Unknown Product: Thistle Nu-Dope

Is it this stuff?
1950's Comet Quality Dope - Nu Dope - Medium Blue - 1 box / 12 bottles | eBay

It must be a long time since Wattyl was sold in gallons. So maybe 60yr old dope fits in.

Thank you Dabbler for your reply. Sorry Im a bit slow. I was away todaay- unexpected trip.
Your product is not what I have. This substance was originally in a school, and was with Finshing spirtits etc. It appears to be some form of polish. I think it way have been purchased in the 60s. The Finishing spirit works great so I thought this stuff may have some benefit.
Thank you

Stupid question but why don't you ask Wattyle and see if they can give you the answer.

Finishing dope to my knowledge was used on silk and rice paper tissue for making the silk or paper taut, hard and strong. Used on such things as wings for model aircraft, lamps, and anywhere else a fins material was used that needed some strength and a protective finish.

From memory it was available in a tautening and non tautening. Haven't heard of Thistle Nu-Dope until now but suggest that any finish with the name dope in it would pretty much be for the same thing.

Most anyone who made model aircraft using balsawood and paper should know about dope.

Dope is a very slow hardening material. Dries very quickly but can take many, many months to harden and seems to stay flexible for much longer. Doubt I'd be using it as a finish especially if it's around 50 years old.

Cheers - Neil

PS do a Google search for "Finishing Dope", there's a fair bit of info about it.