1:48 Soviet Red Stars WWII

About the national insignia

During the Second World War the red star was the national insignia of the Soviet Air Force. Its form changed over the war years: older machines carried a star with no border, while later ones tended to have it outlined with a light and sometimes also a thin dark border, so that the insignia would not be lost on a dark finish. Which surfaces of the airframe carried stars changed as well. Always judge the placement and the form against documentation for the particular machine and period, therefore, rather than against another model in a display case.

What the sheet is for

The sheet takes the place of painting insignia by hand, where any asymmetry shows at once. It suits both kits whose own decals have yellowed or fallen apart and models built outside the versions the manufacturer offers. The manufacturer states the exact sizes of the stars, their number and the scope of the sheet on the packaging.

How to apply the decals

• Before you soak the sheet, check in the instructions whether it is not a self-adhesive version; a self-adhesive film that has been soaked is ruined, whereas a waterslide decal that has not been soaked can be soaked later.
• With a waterslide decal, first give the base a gloss coat, as on a matte one a silvery veil appears under the film.
• Cut the decal out with a small margin, immerse it for a few seconds and let it rest until it starts to move.
• Slide it into place with a brush and push the water out with a soft cloth from the center toward the edges.
• Use a softener where the insignia lies across rivets and seams; let it act and do not move the piece meanwhile.
• Once dry, give the whole model a clear coat, as a matte coat will hide what is left of the film.

Terms of supply

A sheet of decals is supplied. The kit, paints, varnish and softener are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.