1:72 Paint mask T-35

SX-Art 1:72 Paint mask T-35, masking stencils

This is a set of masking stencils in 1:72 scale from the manufacturer SX-Art. It is not a kit and not a plastic accessory: the stencils are applied to a painted model and serve to have a camouflage pattern or markings sprayed in paint instead of decals being used. A sprayed motif has no glossy carrier film and no visible edge of film, so it blends with the surface of the model and stands even heavy weathering and patina.

How the stencils are worked

The base must be smooth, perfectly dry and free of grease. Take the stencil off the carrier sheet, lay it in place and press the edges down carefully, so that no gap is left anywhere. Apply the paint with an airbrush in several light coats and run it from the edge of the stencil inward; a single thick coat runs under the edge and the edge smears. Remove the stencil while the paint has set and is not yet hard cured, as a fresh film tears away cleanly along the edge. It is a good idea to fix the finished area with varnish, to which a wash and pigments then bond well.

The real subject

The T-35 was a Soviet heavy tank developed in the 1930s, characteristic for its multiturret arrangement and long hull. It was produced in a small series only and technically belonged to the generation of slow breakthrough vehicles of the time. For a modeler it is interesting above all for its unusual silhouette and broken surface, on which precisely sprayed camouflage shows up well.

Who the set is for

• modelers who would rather spray camouflage than stick it on from decals
• builders of vehicles in 1:72 scale, where decals seat poorly on a broken surface
• those who plan heavy patina and do not want to deal with decals silvering
• more experienced airbrush users

The package contains the masking stencils alone. A model, paints and an airbrush are not part of it.