1:32 (White Decal Paper) WW1 German Pale Blue Doped Linen "Fokker

The real subject

The fabric covering of First World War aircraft was tensioned and sealed with dope, and it was that which gave the material its characteristic tone. On German machines, alongside yellowish shades, pale blue covering fabric also appeared; Fokker aircraft among others carried it. Such a surface is hard to spray on a model, because besides the shade the weave is needed as well, and paint on its own will not draw that.

What the sheet offers

The sheet carries a continuous area of covering fabric in one shade, out of which you cut pieces to the shape of the parts of the model. The printing is done on white decal paper, so the shade does not depend on the color of the base and does not change even where the model is darker under the decal. The white base is at the same time the reason why it is good to cut precisely: a white edge would show on a darker place.

How to apply the sheet

• Spray the base with a gloss varnish; on a matte surface the decal silvers.
• Cut the piece out with a sharp blade exactly to the shape of the part, with no white overlap.
• Soak it briefly in lukewarm water and let it rest until it releases from the backing.
• Settle the decal and push the excess water out with a cotton bud from the center toward the edges.
• Over ribs and unevenness a decal softener will help the area lie down without bubbles.
• Once completely dry, clear coat with a matte varnish; the covering should not be glossy.

Who it is for

The sheet suits modelers who build German aircraft of the First World War in a large scale and want covering with the structure of fabric. The model, paints, softener and varnish are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.