1:72 Mirage 2000B/N double-sided painting mask

Mirage 2000B and 2000N masking set in 1:72 scale

A double-sided set of masks for spraying a model of the Mirage 2000B and Mirage 2000N in 1:72 scale. The masks are stuck onto the part before painting and uncover only what is to be sprayed, so the transition between paint and the clear area stays even.

The real subject

The Mirage 2000 is a French delta-wing fighter from the Dassault company. The designation in the name covers two two-seat configurations: the B version and the N version. A cockpit for two men means longer glazing with more frames, and with it more work when masking than a single-seat machine has. On a model in 1:72 scale the frames are as thin as a hair, and for that reason a line drawn by hand with a brush practically never comes out even.

How to work with the masks

• Wash and degrease the part before sticking the mask on; a fingerprint is enough to stop the mask holding.
• Move the mask with tweezers, position it along the frame and press the edges down so that paint does not run under them.
• Spray thin coats; a thick coat tears on the mask as well when it is lifted.
• Take the mask off shortly after the paint has dried, slowly and at an angle to the surface.
• Do not glue the glazing with cyanoacrylate glue, as its fumes will fog the clear part.

Who it is for

For builders of French jets in 1:72 scale who want the glazing clean even after the whole model has been sprayed. The layout of the masks and what each is for are given by the manufacturer in the instructions. The package holds masks only; the model, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.