1:48 F-16D Interior 3D Decal

Quinta Studio 1:48 F-16D Interior 3D Decal — 3D decals for the two-seat cockpit

A set of decals for detailing the interior of the two-seat version, neither a kit nor a photo-etched set. The elements are printed with a real thickness on a decal backing paper, so that the instrument panels, side consoles and panels have a three-dimensional relief that casts its own shadow in raking light. The print is in color and includes the small lettering and the colored features of the controls. The two-seat version in the name has a direct bearing on the contents: the set has to cover two cockpits one behind the other, front and rear, which differ in their layout. That also explains the greater extent compared with sets for single-seat versions.

Relief and transfer from the paper

There is only one difference from a classic decal. The printed layer has a noticeable thickness, so that switches, display bezels and the edges of panels really stand out above the surface. The transfer, by contrast, is the same: the cut-out element is soaked in lukewarm water for about fifteen seconds and slid off the paper into place; it has no adhesive layer of its own, it holds on gloss clear coat, and no decal softener or setting solution is used, because it would damage the printed resin. The material is pliable, so it conforms to a slightly curved surface, but it will not carry over a sharp edge; there the work goes part by part.

Use

• Paint both cockpits with a dark base, go over them with gloss clear coat and let them cure completely.
• Sand the molded instruments on the plastic flat.
• Work from the largest parts to the smallest and from the rear cockpit to the front one, so that you do not damage the finished elements.
• Slide the soaked elements off the paper with tweezers by the edge and press them down with a cotton swab from the center outwards.
• Unify the finished interior with a thin coat of matte clear.

Who the set is for

• For modelers building the two-seat version who need detail in both cockpits.
• For builders of modern jet aircraft, where the cockpit is clearly visible under a large clear canopy.
• For those who want a high level of detail without lengthy painting and work with photo-etched parts.

This is an accessory set, not an aircraft kit. The base model, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.