1:48 Ju-88P-1 NATIONAL INSIGNIA kabuki masks

1:48 Ju-88P-1 NATIONAL INSIGNIA kabuki masks

This item is not a model of an aircraft but a masking set in 1:48 scale from the New Ware brand. According to the name it is aimed at the national insignia, that is at markings that on a model are usually dealt with by decals. Sprayed insignia have the advantage over decals that they have no visible edge of carrier film and that they follow the engraving and the irregularities of the surface better. The name gives the designation kabuki masks. It is a separate set that complements the BASIC and EXPERT levels offered for the same aircraft alongside it.

The real subject

The Junkers Ju 88 was one of the most versatile aircraft of the Second World War and the Luftwaffe used it in the bomber, reconnaissance and night fighter roles. The Ju 88 P-1 version stood markedly apart from the others: under the fuselage it carried a massive pod with a 7.5 cm cannon derived from an anti-tank gun, and it was to destroy armored targets and heavy bombers. Because of the weight and drag of the pod it got no further than a limited series, which makes it a rewarding and unmissable subject.

Masking and painting tips

• Spray the insignia only onto a perfectly hardened and smooth base.
• Apply several very thin coats, so that paint does not run under the edge.
• With multicolor insignia, work from the lighter shade to the darker.
• Lift the mask shortly after it has dried and at an angle, not straight upward.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want to spray the markings instead of using decals.
• Builders of German aircraft in 1:48 scale.
• Those dealing with markings on a broken-up or strongly textured surface.