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

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

The set from the Czech manufacturer New Ware is intended for spraying the markings instead of using decals. The masks are die-cut from kabuki tape and correspond to one particular machine, whose four-letter code appears in the name as well. Sprayed markings have two merits over a decal: they have no carrier film, so no glossy outline appears on the surface, and they cannot be spoiled by silvering or by peeling. At the same time this is extra work, because every color has to be laid on separately. It is not a kit and these are not decals.

What the set solves

The He 111Z-1 was a glider tug made up of two He 111 fuselages joined by a new center wing section with a fifth engine, used to tow heavy cargo gliders. A twin airframe also means a doubled number of areas carrying markings, so the accuracy of the placement shows immediately. The set covers the national insignia and the letter code of the machine, that is, the elements where a decal is most likely to wrinkle on a large area or fail to settle on an intricate surface.

Tips for spraying markings

• The surface has to be dry and smooth; on a rough matte finish paint runs under the mask easily.
• Mark the position of the mask first and check it against the plan, and only then press the edges down.
• With multi-color markings work in layers and let each color dry thoroughly.
• Spray square on and in thin coats, so that the paint does not get under the edge of the mask.
• Lift the masks shortly after the paint has dried, at a shallow angle.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who would rather spray markings than apply decals.
• Builders bothered by the glossy outline of a carrier film on a matte surface.
• Those building one particular machine who want the markings accurate.

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