When heat shrinking fabric on a wing, how should one work to achieve even tightness?

To achieve even tightness when heat shrinking fabric on a wing, the best practice is to start from each end and then work inwards toward the center. This method ensures that the tension is distributed evenly across the surface of the fabric, preventing areas of excess tightness or slack. By beginning at the ends, you allow the fabric to gradually tighten as you move toward the center, promoting a consistent shrinkage that maintains the integrity of the covering and supports an aerodynamic surface.

Starting at the ends reduces the risk of creating wrinkles or distortions, which can occur if tension is applied unevenly. This approach also helps in accommodating any differential shrinkage that might occur due to temperature variations or the characteristics of the fabric itself.

When the shrinkage process is performed in this manner, it minimizes the likelihood of inadvertently applying too much force in any single area, which is critical for maintaining the proper profile of the wing and ensuring safe flight characteristics. Thus, working from each end towards the center is the recommended and most effective technique for heat shrinking fabric on a wing.