1:32 Lockheed F-35 A Lightning II Airbrush mask

Airbrush masks for the F-35A Lightning II in 1:32 scale

A 1 Man Army masking set for an F-35A model in 1:32 scale. The masks are self-adhesive and cut to shape in advance, so they are applied straight onto the model and the paint is sprayed through them. That removes the lengthy cutting of strips from masking tape and the tracing of shapes by hand along engraved lines. The set does not replace a kit; the model, the paints and the glue are sold separately.

The real subject

The F-35A Lightning II is a single-seat, single-engine multirole fifth-generation combat aircraft from Lockheed Martin. The A version is the conventional land-based variant taking off and landing from a runway, the B version manages short takeoff and vertical landing and the C version is carrier-borne with a greater wing area and strengthened landing gear. The design is pursued for low radar signature, so the armament is carried primarily in internal weapons bays. From that follows the characteristically smooth, little-articulated surface, which on a model is painted in lighter gray shades with low contrast.

How to work with the masks

Before masking, the surface of the model must be smooth, free of sanding dust and degreased, otherwise the paint will creep under. Lift the individual masks off the sheet with the point of a scalpel. Once they are applied, go over the edges with a toothpick, so that they seat on the curves as well. Spray several thin coats, not one heavy one, because a heavy coat is forced under the edge of the mask and the edge blurs. Mask the matte dark anti-glare panel in front of the cockpit with separate tape if the set does not contain it; that does not follow from the name. Lift the masks off while the varnish is freshly dry.

Who the set is for

• For modelers building the F-35A in 1:32 scale
• For those who want crisp edges without cutting tape by hand
• For builders of modern combat machines with a low-contrast finish
• For modelers who work with a spraying device