What is the best way to hold the netting to have consistent scales from the top of the back to the belly. Having trouble with it standing off at some point in the curves. Thanks!

I do one of two things either wrap your entire bait in the netting, stretch it tight and use a cloths pin to hold the extra netting on each end.

Or use a sewing hoop and put your netting in it then you can press the net down on the bait with one hand while painting with the other. The only down side to this way is you can only paint one side at a time.  They make all different sizes and any sewing shop carries these things, heck you might even find another netting you like while you are in there.

Harshman

Hope wife doesn't check in her sewing room. Hoops could have some paint on them. ;D I didn't do it but we will find you some better ones. : It was probably the new puppy, you know how puppy's are.

Try using an old, or new, fishnet stocking, put the lure down into the bottom of the foot area, and use a clothes pin to hold it tight...  That is the only way I can see doing it, simply!  

Thanks! That's a thought also. I have a hard time getting the netting to what I think it should be. Been watching Big M's and they look perfect every time.

I use both methods exactly like Harshman.   You want to make sure the base colors are good and dry before pressing the net to the bait.

Shoot the paint in several light coats or it will run under the net.

Thanks everyone for the info. Maybe I share help and information one day. Ordered a new airbrush from Dixie and Monday will be 3 weeks and have still not received it. They said they were out and it was back ordered.