1:72 MiG-21 in Polish service exclusive edition part III

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

The third sheet from the decal series of the Polish brand Model Maker devoted to MiG-21 aircraft in Polish service. The part number is a distinguishing detail, not a repeated description; the individual sheets are stand-alone products. The set is intended for a kit in 1:72 scale, which it does not replace.

Softeners and fixers, two different things

Modeling chemicals for decals are sold in two forms and tend to be confused. A decal fixer solution is applied to the surface under a decal, improves adhesion and draws the water away. A softener, by contrast, is applied only to a decal already laid down; it softens the carrier film, which then draws into engraved lines and over riveting. Stronger softeners work fast: within a few tens of seconds the film wrinkles and then smooths itself out again, and until that moment you must not touch it. On smooth areas lukewarm water will do; chemicals pay off only on the vertical tail, on the radar cover and at the wing roots.

Recommended procedure

• Always try the decals on an inconspicuous place first; different sheets take a softener differently.
• Apply a thin layer with a soft brush and let it act without interfering.
• Pierce bubbles with the tip of a scalpel and press them out with a drop of softener.
• Once dry, wipe the adhesive residues off with a cotton swab moistened in water, otherwise they will show under the varnish as matte blotches.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who build Polish MiG-21 aircraft in 1:72 scale.
• Collectors of decal series who are adding the individual parts.
• More experienced builders working with modeling chemicals.

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