1:48 Heinkel He-111Z-1 DGDY NATIONAL INSIGNIA kabuki masks

National insignia masks for the Heinkel He 111Z-1, the machine coded DGDY, 1:48 scale

An accessory from the Czech manufacturer New Ware for the model of this twin-fuselage glider tug. The masks are die-cut from kabuki tape and relate to one particular machine, whose four-letter period code the name of the item carries as well. The set is there so that the markings are sprayed rather than applied. These are not decals and this is not a kit; the model, the paints and the masking aids are obtained separately.

Spraying against a decal

A decal on a large area readily wrinkles, fails to settle on an intricate surface, and its carrier film gives itself away on a matte finish by its sheen. Sprayed markings do not have that problem: the paint lies in the same layer as the rest of the finish, can be weathered along with it and will take even rougher weathering. The price is a slower process, because every color has to be laid on in a separate step with a wait for drying in between. On the He 111Z-1, which thanks to its two joined fuselages has a doubled number of areas carrying markings, the difference between the two methods shows at first glance.

Work tips

• Spray onto a gloss or at least a smooth surface; a rough matte finish will let paint run underneath.
• Check the position of the mask against the plan before you press the edges down.
• Work from the lighter color to the darker one and let each layer dry in between.
• Keep the coats thin: a heavy coat leaves a visible step once the mask comes off.
• When it is finished, bring the whole model together with a final varnish so that the markings blend into the surface.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want markings that stand up to weathering.
• Builders who want to avoid silvering of decals.
• Those building one particular machine who are after accuracy.

This is an accessory for a plastic model, not a kit. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.