1:32 MiG-21 Around the World - Kuba

The real subject

The MiG-21 is a single-engine supersonic fighter of Soviet design with a delta wing and a pointed air intake in the nose. It was built in enormous numbers and served in dozens of countries around the world, among them Cuba, to which the rendition in the name belongs. The set is part of the line designated Around the World, which is devoted to the foreign operators of the type.

What the masking solves

The glazing of the MiG-21 has narrow frames and in 1:32 scale every run of paint is visible at first glance. Tape cut freehand holds worse on a rounded canopy and breaks on the curves. A pre-cut mask fits the shape, holds along its whole length and the paint cannot get under it. Besides the glazing, the masking also comes in handy for the wheels, where the hub needs to be separated cleanly from the tire.

Building and painting tips

First rid the surface of dust and grease; a mask will not hold on fingerprints. Lay it on dry, check the position and only then press the edges down. Apply the paint in thin coats so that the edge is not flooded. Once dry, remove the mask with tweezers at a sharp angle and correct any small run with a brush. If you are masking over paint that has already been sprayed, let the lower coat cure thoroughly, or the mask will pull it off with it during removal. The particular layout of the pieces in the set is given by the manufacturer's instructions.

Who it is for

For builders of large MiG-21 models who want clean cockpit frames and do not want to spend an evening cutting tape. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.