1:32 Blue rib tapes Albatros D.I-D.V

Blue rib tapes – Albatros D.I to D.V, 1:32 (Quinta Studio)

This set from Quinta Studio is neither an interior nor a part for the cockpit: they are decals imitating the fabric tapes with which the ribs under the covering of the wings and the tail surfaces were taped over on aircraft of the First World War. On a model they create a fine regular grid across the whole span of the wing, that is a detail that drawn by hand never looks so even. They are worked with as a decal, with water.

The real subject

The Albatros D.I to D.V were German single-seat biplane fighter aircraft with a wooden fuselage and fabric covering of the lifting surfaces. Over each rib a fabric tape was sewn or glued onto the covering and was then varnished; on a number of machines these tapes had a blue shade, which stood markedly apart from the surrounding covering and is one of the most striking properties of the surface of these aircraft.

An application tip: durability and clear-coating at the end

The tapes go onto the upper side of the model, that is where the model is handled and where the patina is done later. Therefore always seal them with a clear coat once dry – first with a thin layer of gloss, which seals the decal in, and once dry with matte or satin depending on how glossy a surface you want. Without a clear coat the edges of the tapes rub away during handling and lift when washes are worked in. With a clear coat, by contrast, they will take ordinary weathering and wiping with a cotton swab. Clear-coat in thin layers, lightly and from a greater distance; a heavy application of solvent can shift a thin tape.

Who the set is for

• Builders of aircraft of the First World War in 1:32 scale
• Modelers who do not want to paint the ribbing with masking and a brush
• Those who want a regular grid across the whole area of the wing
• Anyone interested in a faithful look of fabric covering

It is an accessory to a plastic kit, not a model. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.