1:35 Airbrush Stencil: French workshop

1:35 Airbrush Stencil: French workshop - a stencil with a French workshop subject

This is not a model or a kit but an airbrush stencil in 1:35 scale. Thematically it aims at a French workshop, that is at the lettering and signage that appeared on the facades of trade premises, car repair shops and stores. Using it is straightforward: the stencil is held against the surface and paint is applied through the cut-out shapes. The particular contents, the number of subjects and the dimensions are stated on the box.

Why lettering does so much in a diorama

Lettering on a wall is the quickest way to tell the viewer where a scene takes place. The language of the text establishes the country, the typography establishes the period and the content of the lettering gives away what the building was for - all that without a single word of commentary. A French setting is a rewarding subject in modeling: city and rural views from the years of the Second World War and from the postwar period are among the most built subjects in 1:35 scale. Painted advertising and company signage on render is also entirely typical of the period, because printed stuck-on advertising was not yet common at the time.

Usage tips

• On rough render, press the stencil down carefully over its whole area, or the paint will run under into the texture.
• Spray at right angles, in thin layers and at a lower pressure - a sharp edge comes from patience, not from the force of the application.
• Place the lettering where it would be visible from the street in reality, not tucked behind other elements.
• Mask off the surrounding areas beforehand so that overspray does not reach the neighboring details.

Who the stencil is for

• Builders of city and industrial dioramas in 1:35 scale with a French subject.
• Modelers who want to apply lettering with paint instead of using decals.
• Anyone interested in period-accurate signage for facades and workshop premises.