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In-Box Review
148
24˝ US Letters and Numbers
WWII – Insignia Series Premium Paint Masks 24˝ US 45 Degree Letters and Numbers
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by: Tim Hatton [ LITESPEED ]

Contents:

This release is part of the expanding list of the Insignia Series. The contents provide masks to create just the national markings. Also available from Maketar is Vinyl versions of these masks that work out a little cheaper.
1/48 24˝ US 45 Degree Letters and Numbers
Inside the resealable bag there are 156 masks pre-cut on the four Kubaki self-adhesive sheets, which seems to be the most popular media for mask making these days. It is very difficult to make out the individual masks on each sheet and impossible to photograph. Each mask can be used as a positive or negative mask, so you are doubly the usefulness of this release.
The instructions are printed on the back of the label and to be honest take a bit of figuring out at first, but once understood seem pretty logical. It is claimed that the masks can be used several times and if so really makes good economic sense. Maketar idea of placing a strip of Kubaki tape along the centre line of the letter or number seems a very good one. This also keeps all the parts of the mask together and if placed correctly the tape will help to line the letters and numbers up correctly. Perhaps a tutorial on the Maketar website might be an idea, although they do offer help via email.
Note: If Kubaki masks are not favoured medium, then Maketar also produce Vinyl masks to. The masks are also produced in 1/32 scale.

Price
Vinyl: £7.86
Kabuki: £9.15

Conclusions:

This will be an interesting method of achieving sympathetic looking marking for your models particularly if you like to weather your aircraft. The bright coloured decals always look at odds with heavily weathered paintwork. Just think no more decal solutions, silvering, annoying specks of dust and air bubbles under the decals spoiling your pride and joy. It may not be quite so instant, but the little extra effort involved using these masks could create that award winning model you have been dreaming about.
SUMMARY
Highs: Markings will be more sympathetic with the finish of the model.
Lows: The instructions are not easy to follow; some may find the process fiddly.
Verdict: These masks seem to be a worthwhile alternative to waterslide decals, particularly if you want to match the look of the markings with overall paint finish and weathering. Well worth the effort.
Percentage Rating
95%
  Scale: 1:48
  Mfg. ID: N/A
  Suggested Retail: See text
  PUBLISHED: Jul 11, 2012
  NATIONALITY: United States
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 90.86%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 95.00%

Our Thanks to Maketar Premium Paint Masks!
This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.

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About Tim Hatton (litespeed)
FROM: ENGLAND - NORTH WEST, UNITED KINGDOM

Aircraft are my primary interest from WWll to present day.

Copyright ©2021 text by Tim Hatton [ LITESPEED ]. Images also by copyright holder unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AeroScale. All rights reserved.



   
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