1:72 Sikorsky H-53 Sea Stallion BASIC kabuki masks

BASIC kabuki masks for the Sikorsky H-53 Sea Stallion, 1:72 scale

A set from the Czech manufacturer New Ware for the model of this heavy transport helicopter. The masks are die-cut from kabuki tape, a thin paper material with a mild adhesive that is used in modeling precisely for masking glazing. Kabuki tape conforms well to curves, holds a sharp edge and leaves no sticky residue when lifted. The manufacturer lists the sets in this range at two levels, marked BASIC and EXPERT; this item belongs to the BASIC level. Compare the extent of the two levels against the manufacturer's data.

Why masks in a small scale in particular

In 1:72 the canopy frames are as thin as a hair and hand cutting of tape runs up against the limits of accuracy. A die-cut mask holds the width of the frame along its whole length and, above all, holds it the same on both sides of the model, which is crucial on a helicopter with a great many windows and ports. The Sikorsky H-53 Sea Stallion is an American heavy transport helicopter with a six-blade main rotor and a large cockpit, so the glazing is very visible on a model.

How to work with kabuki masks

• Lift the masks from the sheet with the sharp tip of a knife or with tweezers, not with your fingers.
• Wash and degrease the glazing first, or the mask will not adhere in the corners.
• Over curves, press the mask down gradually with a soft wooden stick so that no edge lifts anywhere.
• Spray thin coats; a small scale will not forgive a heavy coat of paint, as the edges thicken.
• Lift the masks shortly after the paint has dried, at a shallow angle and without jerking.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who do not want to fight with cutting tape in 1:72 scale.
• Builders of helicopters with a large area of glazing.
• Anyone who cares about the frames looking the same on both sides of the model.

This is an accessory for a plastic model, not a kit. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.