1:72 Supermarin Spitfire Mk.1 mask + decals

The real subject

The Supermarine Spitfire Mk I is the first production version of the British single-seat fighter, and the one that became most famous in the Battle of Britain. Its hallmarks are the elliptical wing and the slender nose housing the Rolls-Royce Merlin V12 engine. Two things therefore matter on a model: a clean transition between the upper camouflage and the underside finish, and the precise placement of the national insignia on the curved surface of the wing.

What the set contains

The package brings together two things that are needed side by side when finishing a model: a decal sheet and masking templates. The masks serve to bound the finish, typically on the canopy and on the wheels, and the decals then add the insignia and the lettering. Which particular machines the sheet covers and how many templates the package holds can be found in the manufacturer's instructions. Further items share the same name, so the details on the box are what tell them apart.

How to work with the decals and the masks

• apply the masks before spraying, onto a dry surface, and press the edge down with a blunt tool
• take the mask off as soon as the paint has set; on a fully cured finish it tears the edge
• lay the decals onto a smooth gloss varnish; on a matte base a silvery haze appears
• with the usual waterslide version, cut into the sheet, soak the element and let it rest until it releases from the paper
• a softener helps on a raised surface, but dose it sparingly and do not move the decal afterwards

Before you wet the sheet

Check in the instructions whether it is a self-adhesive version. The damage runs only one way: a waterslide decal that has not been soaked can still be soaked later, whereas a self-adhesive film that has been soaked is ruined for good.

Terms of supply

The kit, the paints, the varnish and the glue are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.