1:48 Bristol Blenheim Mk.I BASIC kabuki masks

Bristol Blenheim Mk.I – BASIC masks 1:48 (New Ware)

This item is not a model of an aircraft, but an accessory. These are cut masks in kabuki tape for a model of the British Bristol Blenheim Mk.I in 1:48 scale from New Ware. The set is marked with the BASIC grade, which in this maker's system is the basic scope of a mask set. The exact make-up of the set and the number of pieces are given on the manufacturer's packaging.

What the accessory is for

The Blenheim Mk.I has a glazed nose and an intricate cockpit canopy with a great many frames. Masking them by hand with tape means long hours of work and the result tends to be uneven. Pre-cut masks follow the shape of the frames, hold a sharp edge and save time. Kabuki tape is a thin Japanese masking tape with mild tack, which conforms well to curves and does not lift the paint when removed.

Usage tips

• Degrease the clear parts before masking and let them dry
• Transfer the masks with tweezers or the tip of a scalpel
• Press the edges down with a toothpick, so that no paint runs under the edge
• Spray in thin layers; a heavy layer lifts the edge of the mask
• Take the mask off once the paint has flashed off, not after the finish has fully cured

Who the set is for

For modelers who are building the Blenheim Mk.I in 1:48 scale and want clean glazing frames without lengthy masking by hand. Make sure beforehand that the set matches the kit you are building, as the masks are cut to one particular shape of glazing.

The accessory is supplied unpainted; paints and glue are not included in the package.