1:48 F-104A/C one-sided express fit mask for Kinetik

The real subject

The Lockheed F-104 Starfighter is an American supersonic aircraft of the 1950s with an unmistakable silhouette: a slender fuselage, short straight wings with a sharp leading edge and a high-set tail. The A and C renditions belong to the early versions brought into service with the US Air Force. It is precisely on such a smooth and simply finished machine that every inaccurate transition of color shows, so careful masking pays off doubly.

What the set contains

A set of cut masks in 1:48 scale intended for Kinetic kits. The name labels it as single-sided, that is intended for masking from one side. The particular extent of the covered areas is given in the instructions for the set; the masks are cut to the shape of the parts of that kit, so cutting out tape and finding the outline by hand falls away.

Building and painting tips

• Apply the masks before spraying, onto a dry, clean and degreased surface.
• Press the edges down with a blunt stick or a toothpick, so that paint does not creep underneath.
• Apply the paint in thin coats and let them set.
• Lift the mask once the paint has dried, slowly and at an acute angle.
• Protect the glazing from sanding and polishing; fine dust is hard to get off it later.

Terms of supply

The masks alone are supplied. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise. For the placement of the individual parts and the procedure of application, go by the manufacturer's instructions.