1:72 Ki-61 I Hien 3D/optical illusion paint mask for control surfaces RS models

What it is for

The control surfaces of Second World War aircraft usually had fabric covering over a metal structure. Stretched fabric sagged between the ribs and in side light a regular ribbing stood out on it. The set creates this impression in paint: the masks define strips over which a slightly darker tone is sprayed, and once they are taken off the eye reads a smooth surface as three-dimensional relief. The parts of the model are not touched at all in the process.

What the set offers

The set belongs to a model of the Ki-61-I Hien, a Japanese army fighter with a slender fuselage, known among the Allies under the nickname Tony. According to the name it is cut for the RS Models kits in 1:72 scale, so the outlines of the masks match the control surfaces and ailerons of those models.

• Optical illusion masks for the control surfaces of the Ki-61-I
• 1:72 scale, cut for the RS Models kits
• The relief of the fabric arises in paint, with no engraving into the surface
• The result is reversible until you coat the area over

Tips on application and spraying

Let the base finish mature thoroughly, and only then apply the masks and press the edges down with a toothpick. Choose a shade only a little darker than the base and spray at low pressure in two or three very thin coats; the effect can always be strengthened, but taken away only with difficulty. Take the masks off shortly after the paint has dried and unify the area at the close with a clear coat. If you go on to weather the model, let the wash run along the ribbing, not across it, so that the two effects do not fight each other.

Who it is for

For modelers who build Japanese fighters in 1:72 scale and want a convincing surface with no engraving and filling. The kit, paints and thinner are not part of the package, unless stated otherwise.