1:48 CAC Wirraway Canopy airbrush mask

MH models 1:48 CAC Wirraway — canopy glazing mask

A set of self-adhesive masks for spraying the canopy glazing frames of the CAC Wirraway model in 1:48 scale. The masks are die-cut to the shape of each individual frame, so there is no lengthy measuring and cutting of masking tape. The words canopy airbrush mask in the name make clear that these are glazing masks for airbrush work. The package holds no plastic model parts.

The real subject

The CAC Wirraway was a single-engine two-seat aircraft of Australian manufacture derived from the American NA-16 trainer design and its offshoots. It was built by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation and served in Australia as a trainer and general-purpose type; in the first months of the war in the Pacific it was even committed to combat, which its design had never been meant for. The long glazed cockpit with two seats in tandem is characteristic, and that is exactly why a masking set pays off on the model.

Usage tips

Degrease the glazing first and let it dry. Press the masks down all around with a soft tool: the most common cause of paint creeping under is an edge that was not pressed home. The frames are usually sprayed first in the interior color and only then in the exterior shade, so that the frame is not the wrong color when seen from inside. Lay the paint on thinly and in several coats. Lift the mask shortly after the paint has dried, pulling it back at an angle over itself rather than straight up.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building the Wirraway in 1:48 scale.
• Those who want sharp, straight frames on the long glazed cockpit.
• Builders working with an airbrush who dislike paint creeping under tape.
• Modelers who want to save the time of cutting masks by hand.

This is not a kit. The set contains masks only; the model, paints and glue are not included in the package. Check that it matches your own Wirraway kit in 1:48 scale before you buy.