1:72 Douglas A-20 Havoc Squadron Lettering Mask Set (Suitable for all Manufacturers)

Code letters without using decals

Units distinguished their machines with letter codes on the fuselage, to which belonged the individual letter of the particular aircraft and the serial number on the tail surfaces. The size and the spacing of these markings were laid down by regulation, and it is precisely on them that a viewer spots careless work sooner than on anything else. That is exactly why it is worth dealing with them other than by gluing.

Paint applied through a stencil merges with the surrounding varnish. Nowhere does a carrier film shine under it, there is no risk of the edge lifting over the molded surface texture once dry, and during rubbing back the marking behaves just like the area around it.

In the package there are cut markings in 1:72 size and the item is not tied to the molding of a particular brand. It is therefore a universal supply which can be drawn on for several models under construction at once.

Before spraying, measure the layout out dry while everything can still be moved. Then press the stencil down all the way round, with particular care in places with sharp internal angles, where paint likes to seep.

Spray at right angles to the surface and only lightly. It is advisable to uncover before the varnish has hardened completely, so that the edge stays sharp and does not break away with a piece of paint.

The markings are sprayed in a different shade from the surrounding camouflage, and light letters on a dark base need an undercoat. The proven trick runs: lay a light coat of the base color down first, which seals the edge of the opening, and only then apply the target shade.