1:72 Aichi D3A1 Val - Stencils

Technical lettering for the Aichi D3A1 in 1:72 scale

The Aichi D3A1 Val – Stencils decals add to the model the small maintenance and warning markings that kits normally leave out or cover with only a few items. Art Scale supplies them as a separate sheet, so the builder can place the lettering according to their own references. National insignia and personal markings are not covered by this kind of sheet.

The real subject

The D3A1 was a carrier dive bomber of the Imperial Japanese Navy, known to the Allies under the code name Val. Its recognition marks were the fixed landing gear with aerodynamic wheel fairings and the elliptical wing; it was in use from the start of the fighting in the Pacific and was among the most successful machines of its kind in the first years of the war. It is exactly on aircraft with a markedly detailed surface that small lettering adds a great deal to the impression a finished model makes.

How to apply the lettering

The lettering at this scale is really tiny, so it pays to work with a magnifier and to transfer the soaked decal on the tip of a brush. The base has to be glossy and smooth. Once it is seated, blot the water away, let it dry and only then unify the surface with varnish according to how matte you want the result. Plan the work section by section around the airframe so the sheets do not get confused.

Who the sheet suits

• for builders of Japanese naval hardware
• for modelers who want to carry a model through to the last detail
• as a supplement to an older box with a poor decal sheet
• for competition builds where the small things are judged