1:48 Fiesler Fi-156 C Storch - EXPERT Kabuki Masks (for Tamiya Kits)

The real subject

The Fieseler Fi 156 Storch was a German liaison and observation aircraft with famous qualities on takeoff and landing: it could lift off from, and settle onto, a patch of ground another machine would have considered unusable. For that it has a high-set wing with extending devices on the leading edge, long landing gear legs and, above all, an extensive glazed cabin with a dense network of frames. The C version was one of the production series of the type.

What the set offers

It is exactly that glazing that makes the Storch a model on which masking takes more time than the build itself. The set offers templates cut in advance to fit the frames of the cabin, so there is no need to cut tape with a knife directly on the part. The designation EXPERT distinguishes this version within the range of masks, and the name ties the set to Tamiya kits in 1:48 scale. The templates are in thin paper tape, which conforms well to curvature, stays in place and leaves a sharp edge once removed.

Building and painting tips

Stick the masks onto a clean and degreased part before spraying, never once the paint has dried. Press the edges down carefully with a toothpick so that paint does not bleed under them. Spray in thin coats, ideally first in the shade of the cabin interior and only then in the external finish. Take the mask off while the paint is freshly dry, and pull it back over itself rather than straight up. Any adhesive residue comes off with lukewarm water.

Terms of supply

Masking templates are supplied. The kit of the aircraft, paints and other materials are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.