1:48 Spitfire HF Mk. VIII - Stencils a Markings

Spitfire HF Mk. VIII - Stencils and Markings 1:48 (HGW)

A set of wet transfers from the Czech manufacturer HGW intended for models of the Supermarine Spitfire HF Mk. VIII in 1:48 scale. It is neither a kit nor parts of the airframe, but an accessory with markings: the sheet carries small technical and maintenance markings (stencils) and national insignia and unit markings (markings), with which a finished model is completed. The set is conceived as a universal one for models of the given version in this scale.

How wet transfers differ from ordinary decals

A classic decal has its print carried on a clear carrier film that stays on the model once dry and, on a less glossy surface, shows as what is called silvering. With a wet transfer the carrier film is taken off once it has adhered and dried, and only the color of the print itself is left on the surface. The result therefore looks as though it had been sprayed through a stencil, which is clearly visible with small markings and fine lines on the large surfaces of the wings.

Use and tips

Spray the surface under the transfers and varnish it over with a gloss varnish, so that it is smooth and without pores. Cut the item out together with its surround, soak it, slide it into place and, while it is wet, you can still move it into the exact position. Then press the water out from under the print with a soft cloth or a cotton swab, let it dry thoroughly for several hours and only then take the carrier film off carefully. At the end bring the whole model together with a semi-matte or a matte varnish according to the look you want.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who build the Spitfire in a larger scale and want clean markings with no glossy decal edges
• Builders of contest models, where the details of the surface are judged close up
• Those who want to add to or replace the markings from the original kit package
• More experienced modelers used to working with varnishing and with decals

This is an accessory with markings, not a model. A kit, paints, varnishes and softeners are not included in the package.