1:72 Nothrop A-17/A-17A Canopy airbrush mask /MPM

The real subject

The Northrop A-17 is an American single-engine light attack monoplane from the 1930s, with a low wing and long canopy glazing over both seats. The A-17A version differs from the basic one in the design of the landing gear. It is precisely the long canopy, divided into many panes, that is the most laborious place on the model: the frames of the glazing have to be straight and of the same width, otherwise the eye notices that sooner than anything else.

What the set contains

This is a set of masking templates for the canopy for a model in 1:72 scale, cut for the kit by MPM. The templates cover the glazed areas, so that they stay clear after spraying and the frames of the glazing come out crisp and of one width. The extent of the templates and which parts they cover are given by the manufacturer's description and instructions. Before buying, it pays to check that the set corresponds to the kit you are building.

Building and painting tips

Wash the canopy before masking and let it dry out completely, so that the template settles along its whole length. Stick it down before spraying and press it into the corners with a toothpick or the blunt tip of tweezers. Apply the paint in thin coats and direct it from the edge of the template into the area, because a heavy coat likes to seep underneath. Lift the template off as soon as the paint is dry to the touch, slowly and at a slant to the surface; the longer it stays on the model, the harder it comes away.

• 1:72 scale
• masking templates for the canopy
• the subject is the Northrop A-17 and A-17A
• cut for the kit by MPM
• the templates are stuck down before spraying and lifted off once the paint has dried

Terms of supply

It is an accessory for a kit you build yourself. The model, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.