1:72 MiG-21 in Polish service Exclusive edition part I

Decals MiG-21 in Polish service, exclusive edition, part I, 1:72

This sheet of decals from the Polish brand Model Maker belongs to a more extensive series devoted to MiG-21 aircraft in Polish service. The exclusive edition designation and the part number are what tell the individual sheets of the series apart, so when ordering, watch precisely the number of the part. The set is an accessory for a kit in 1:72 scale, not the model itself.

When the decals come up

Decals are applied only in the closing third of a build. The sequence of steps that has proved itself looks like this: a finished and cleaned-up model, filler primer and a base coat, the main color finish, any shading and lightening of the areas, then gloss clear varnish as the surface under the decals. Only now does the sheet come up. Once the decals have dried, the patina follows, and right at the end the unifying matte or satin varnish. Anyone who reverses the order and applies decals straight onto matte paint then fights silvering for nothing.

What to watch out for

• Let the gloss varnish cure for at least a day; a decal can be damaged on fresh varnish.
• Use lukewarm water, not hot; hot water releases the adhesive too fast.
• Carry large decals on a wide brush or on a piece of plastic, so that they do not fold over.
• Once they are on, let the model dry in peace; touching a damp film leaves marks.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building the MiG-21 in 1:72 scale in Polish guise.
• Anyone interested in the series who collects the individual parts one by one.
• Builders whose decals from the box have yellowed or cracked.

The package holds decals. The kit, the paints and the varnish are not part of it, unless stated otherwise.