1:24 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb 2 canopy mask (inside and outside canopy frame mask)

What the set is for

The cockpit glazing decides how a model turns out. Blanking out the framework of a canopy by hand with strips of tape is slow, and one edge straying by a tenth of a millimeter is enough for the finished model to give it away. Ready-made masks shorten that work: they are shaped exactly to the part, so all you do is seat them and press them down. In 1:24 scale the canopy is large and every inaccuracy shows on it more than on small models.

What the set contains

Masks for the framework of the cockpit canopy of a Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb model, and according to the name for both the outside and the inside of the glazing. Masking the inside makes sense where the cockpit is to be open and the viewer will see the back of the canopy too. The extent of the sheet and the layout showing which part goes where are given in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

How to work with the masks

Wash the glazing first and let it dry completely; a mask does not hold on a greasy surface. Separate the parts from the sheet with the point of a scalpel or with tweezers, seat them, and then press the edges down firmly with a blunt stick so that paint does not creep under them. Masks belong on the model before spraying, not after it. Spray several thin coats; a heavy coat will build a ridge at the edge of the mask that stays there after it is removed. Remove the masks while the paint is freshly dry, not after it has fully cured, or the edge of the finish will tear.

Terms of supply

What is supplied is a masking set. The kit, paints and clear coats are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.