1:48 P-38F/G Lightning EXPERT kabuki masks

Painting masks for the P-38F/G Lightning 1:48 — the EXPERT set

A set of precisely cut painting masks of Japanese kabuki paper tape from the Czech brand New Ware, meant for painting a model of the American Lockheed P-38F/G Lightning fighter in 1:48 scale. The EXPERT variant is the most complete level of the range: besides the basic masking it also allows for further details of the airframe, so it covers practically the whole process of spraying the model.

Why masks instead of painting by hand

The P-38 has a large canopy with dense framing, plus a pair of tail booms and landing gear whose wheel discs are hard to outline with a brush. A line drawn by hand on a canopy frame rarely comes out completely straight; with a cut mask it is enough to lay it on, press the edges down and spray. Kabuki tape is thin and flexible, follows rounded surfaces well, has low tack and leaves no glue residue or damage to the surface once it comes off.

Use

• Degrease the surfaces before masking, transfer the masks with tweezers and press the edges down lightly.
• Spray light coats — a thick coat of paint creeps under the edge of the mask more easily.
• Take the masks off only once the paint has dried, pulling at a sharp angle.
• Keep unused masks on the backing sheet, in the dry and out of direct sunlight.

Who it is for

For modelers who want a cleanly sprayed cockpit and consistently crisp details without hours of outlining by hand — from moderately advanced builders to competition modelers who want to get the most out of a P-38.

This is an accessory: the package contains only painting masks, the model and the paints are not included. Check the compatibility with your particular kit before buying.