1:48 L-39X-11 (L-39ZO)

The real subject

The L-39 Albatros is a jet trainer of Czechoslovak production on which whole generations of pilots were trained at home and abroad. It is among the most widespread trainers of its day and flies to this day, with sporting operators and in colorful display teams. The tandem cockpit with two seats under glazed canopies is typical of the type, and on a model it is exactly the place where careful work shows most. The designation in the name defines the particular form, the L-39ZO version.

What the set solves

This is a set of masking templates in 1:48 scale, that is, an aid for painting and not a part that stays on the model. A mask covers the area that is to stay free of paint and is lifted after spraying; the edge then comes out sharp and without runs, which hand painting or adhesive tape achieves only with difficulty in this scale. Exactly what the set covers and in what order the templates are applied is given in the manufacturer's instructions enclosed. Which kit the templates are cut for is set by the manufacturer's part number.

How to work with the masks

The area under the mask has to be clean, degreased and smooth. Apply the template before spraying and press it down all the way around, above all on the edges where paint likes to creep under. Spray in several thin coats and direct the flow from the edge of the mask toward the middle of the area, so that the paint is not pushed under the edge. Lift the mask while the coat is freshly dry; after days the film cures and tears the surrounding paint away with it. Pull it slowly, back over itself and at a shallow angle to the surface, not straight up. Remove any adhesive residue only once everything has dried, and dry.

Terms of supply

A set of masks is supplied. The kit, paints and varnishes are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.