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

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

A masking set from the Czech manufacturer New Ware for the model of this heavy transport helicopter. The parts are die-cut from kabuki tape, a thin paper material with a mild adhesive that conforms to curves and leaves no sticky residue when lifted. The manufacturer offers the sets in this range at two levels, BASIC and EXPERT; this item carries the EXPERT designation. What exactly each level covers is given in the manufacturer's overview. It is not a helicopter kit.

Where careful masking pays off

The Sea Stallion is a machine with a long fuselage, a large cockpit and a row of further glazed areas, plus a six-blade main rotor and a folding tail section. In 1:72 scale most of the frames are narrower than a scratch of a fingernail, so hand-laid tape can hardly be kept straight along its whole length. Die-cut masks hold the width of the frame and, above all, are symmetrical on the left and right sides of the model, which shows most of all when seen from above.

Work procedure

• Plan the order of work first: the glazing before the rest of the model, so that masked areas do not have to be opened up twice.
• The surface under the mask has to be clean and degreased, or the paint will run underneath in the corners.
• Over curves, work the mask down gradually with a wooden stick from the center to the edges.
• Spray several thin coats; a heavy coat leaves a visible step once the mask comes off.
• Lift the masks shortly after the paint has dried, at a shallow angle, not straight up.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want the glazing done in detail even in a small scale.
• Builders who spray with an airbrush and are after sharp edges.
• Those who would rather put money into a mask than hours of work with a knife and tape.

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