Aircraft masking can be a chore or perhaps a required part of the build that is only tolerated. However, with the right tools and tips, aircraft masking can become a rewarding and enjoyable aspect of the modeling process. Although some parts of the aircraft model can get away with mistakes, the canopy can never be one of them. Squiggly framework or glue spots on clear parts can spoil your model more surely than anything. You may consider the below techniques when masking the canopy;
Pre-Cuts Masks
For ill-defined panel lines, complicated faint or framework, pre-cut masks will be the most favorable. Besides, they are accurate, easy to apply, and designed for specific kits. Using the tip of a hobby knife, slip it under the mask corner and twitch it from the adhesive backing. Then place the mask on the model without distorting the shape of the mask. After painting, gently rock the knife blade along the mask edge to break it from the paint. Finally, turn up the mask corner and use tweezers to remove it.
Adhesive Foil
The adhesive-backed foil will be a good choice for faintly molded frames or a desire for fine edges. It is recommended to use gold or aluminum foil since it is less reflective, making it easier to see. You may apply more than you require to burnish it down. Furthermore, use a brand-new hobby knife to trim along the frame and tweezers to remove excess foil away. After painting, all you need is a blunt toothpick to start lifting the foil.
Masking with Tape
If the canopy’s panel lines are elevated in sharp relief, you can use the tape to mask it. However, there is a crucial caveat — you must use Tamiya tape or a similarly thin and pliable tape for easy burnishing it tightly to the framework. When you have the outline well defined, you can use a new blasé to trim. Moreover, work one panel one at a time to ensure that the tape hews to the canopy curves. After that, airbrush with acrylic paint and coat with PFM. Alternatively, you can clean the lines using a toothpick as it will remove the paint without scraping the plastic.
Conclusion
The focal point of an aircraft build is often the cockpit and canopy. There seems to be a lot going on in there that the eyes are drawn to it. Hence, there will always be extra efforts to ensure that the canopy glass is clear and framing painted with crisp, hard lines. Although aircraft masking can be an involving task, using the right techniques will be a plus.
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