1:48 Decal Messerschmitt Bf 109 Emil STENCILS

Decals for the Messerschmitt Bf 109 Emil, technical stencils, 1:48 scale

A decal sheet from the Hungarian manufacturer HAD models in 1:48 scale intended for a model of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 E fighter, known among modelers by the nickname Emil. Unlike the ordinary sheets with camouflage schemes, this one is devoted to the small technical lettering: service markings, filling data and maintenance markings which on the real aircraft recurred in dozens of places. It is not a kit but an accessory for a model built from a separately sold set.

What the technical lettering does

It is precisely the small lettering that turns a model into a convincing machine. The decals from boxes tend to be poor in this area or coarsely printed, and from close up or in a photograph the difference shows at once. A separate sheet of lettering makes it possible to fill in the detail around filler necks, panels and access covers even where the basic set is silent. It also comes into its own when building a model with an open engine bay, or in a diorama where the machine is seen from close up.

How to apply the decals

Small lettering is demanding on the base: it has to be smooth and glossy, otherwise the film will silver. Separate the designs with a sharp scalpel, carry them with flat-jawed tweezers and settle them with a brush dampened in water. On very small decals it pays to lay a drop of softener on only once the position is set, so that the design does not crease. Once dry, seal the surface with a matte or semi-gloss varnish, which unifies the sheen of the whole airframe.

Who the sheet is for

• modelers who want to add faithful small lettering to a Bf 109 E model
• builders for whom the sparse lettering from the box is not enough
• photographers of models and builders of detailed dioramas
• those filling out an older set with damaged decals

The package holds the decal sheet only. The model, paints and varnishes are not included.