1:32 Bell AH-1G Cobra Markings

The set

A set of masks for spraying the markings of the Bell AH-1G Cobra helicopter in 1:32 scale. The insignia and lettering are thus applied in paint straight onto the surface of the model, so there is no carrier film on them and the result blends with the surrounding finish. In a large scale that shows the most: a sprayed marking has neither the glossy edge nor the step that a decal always creates.

How to work with the masks

The masks are stuck onto a finished, thoroughly dried base coat, that is still before the marking itself is sprayed. The surface has to be clean and degreased. Press the edges of the mask down with a stick or the blunt side of tweezers, because otherwise the paint bleeds underneath and the edge is smeared.

• spray the paint in several thin coats rather than one heavy one
• lower the pressure and spray perpendicular to the mask, so that the paint does not get under the edge
• remove the mask while the paint has only just dried, not once it has cured
• wipe the remains of the adhesive away with a soft cloth, not with solvent

Who it is for

For the modeler who is building a Cobra in 1:32 scale and wants the markings sprayed rather than applied as decals. The work is slower than with a decal, but it is rewarded with a surface free of film and free of the risk that a decal dries with a bubble underneath it.

Worth knowing for the build

Compare the shape of the masks with the model dry before spraying. The helicopter has a slender and heavily rounded fuselage, so on double-curved surfaces lay the mask down from the center toward the edges.

This is an accessory set. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.