1:72 Polikarpov I-16 type 5

The real subject

The Polikarpov I-16 was a Soviet single-seat fighter of the mid-1930s and one of the first production cantilever low-wing monoplanes with retractable landing gear. You recognize it at first glance: a very short, stubby fuselage, a massive radial engine in the nose and short wings of small span. The type 5 is among the early production versions of the machine.

What the masks do

A masking set takes the place of laborious trimming of adhesive tape. The elements are pre-cut to shape, so the frame of the glazing gets a crisp edge and the clear parts stay clean. The set is cut for one particular kit in 1:72 scale, because the shape of the frames differs from one to another; which kit the manufacturer has in mind should be checked in its description. The main argument for masks is time: in a small scale, cutting by hand is slow and the result tends to be uneven.

Work tips

The masks are applied onto a clean, degreased surface before spraying. Lift an element off the backing with pointed tweezers or a toothpick, lay it down and press it, above all around the perimeter; an edge that has not seated is the only place paint will creep through. On curved canopies it helps to warm the mask lightly once laid on and press it so that it clings to the curve. Spray in thin coats. Take the mask off as soon as the paint has set, not once it has fully cured, when the edge of the finish peels away with it.

• a masking set in 1:72 scale for the I-16 type 5
• the elements are pre-cut to shape
• applied before spraying, removed once the paint has set
• a crisp transition on the frames of the glazing

Terms of supply

The kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.