1:32 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Va - Double-Sided Express Fit and Self Adhesive Mask (for Kotare Kits)

The real subject

The Supermarine Spitfire Mk.V was the most numerous version of the Spitfire and carried the Rolls-Royce Merlin 45, a V12 engine. The Mk.Va sub-version differs from the more widespread Mk.Vb in the type of wing: it carries eight 7.7 mm machine guns and no cannon, that is, the same armament as the earlier Spitfires. Considerably fewer were built than of the versions with the cannon wing, so it is a variant that will not be lost among other Spitfires in a display case.

How the set works

The masks are self-adhesive and cut to shape in advance. You peel them off the backing and lay them on the surface that is to stay free of paint. Nothing has to be traced or trimmed on the model itself, which is the most tedious part of the work on intricate canopy framing. The double-sided version means that the set carries parts for both sides of the masked surface: on clear parts the paint then does not reach their inner side either, and the framing looks the same from inside as from outside. The exact extent of the set and the recommended procedure are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Usage tips

• Apply the mask before spraying, onto a degreased, dry surface.
• Press the edges down with a toothpick or a blunt stick so that paint does not creep under the rim.
• Spray the base shade of the framing first and only then the top coat; the transitions will come out clean.
• Peel the mask off while the paint has only just dried; later it comes away less easily.
• The set is cut for Kotare kits in 1:32 scale; on models from other manufacturers the shapes do not match.

Terms of supply

A masking set is supplied according to the breakdown on the packaging. The model of the aircraft, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.