148 Spitfire Mk.XII double-sided mask self-adhesive, pre-cutted for Airfix

The real subject

The Spitfire Mk.XII was the version of the British fighter in which the Rolls-Royce Griffon engine first reached production. Compared with the older versions it has a longer nose with more prominent fairings over the row of cylinders and clipped wingtips. It was built for combat at low altitude, where the higher engine output gave it the speed needed to catch low-flying attackers. It was one of the less numerous versions, which makes it a rewarding subject that will not blend in with the other Spitfires in a display case.

What the set contains

Masking templates in 1:48 scale, pre-cut and, according to the name, tuned to the Airfix kit. The version is double-sided, so the sheet carries templates for both sides of the glazing; a mask from inside prevents the frames from looking translucent once painted. The templates are self-adhesive, so you do not have to cut anything out or add any tape.

Building and painting tips

• apply the templates before spraying, to a clean and degreased surface
• press the edges down carefully, or paint will run under them
• lay the paint on in thin coats and let it flash off in between
• lift the mask once the paint has flashed off, slowly and at an angle to the side
• do not leave remnants of masks on the glazing long after spraying is finished

Who it is for

The set suits anyone who does not want to cut the cockpit framing from tape by hand, and it saves work above all where there are more panes of glazing. The model, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.