Can someone tell me who makes the best canopy masks? The best selection?And, finally, what catalogue is best to order them from. Squadron, as I’ve said before, does not even include them in the annual catalogue or updates.
tom
Do a search on www.greatmodels.com for canopy masks. They have quite a few to select from.
stinger
I’ve used Cutting Edge masks almost exlusively, and have had great success with them. There’s been absolutely no problems with painting bleeding or creeping under them. Just make sure you follow the instructions exactly. I’ve heard comments before that these masks don’t always fit the canopy exactly, but again in my experience that’s not been a problem. As Stinger said, Cutting Edge is carried by Greatmodels.
I’ve only used Eduard masks once, and the results were also good. One thing I noticed with them is that they didn’t seem to stick as well as Cutting Edge, especially around curves. Also, the masks don’t always cover the whole glass area, and sometimes the center area needs to be covered with liquid mask or more tape. This might explain why they are usually a bit less expensive than Cutting Edge. I think Greatmodels carries these too, and perhaps Squadron as well. I’m sure others carry them too, but I just don’t know who at this time.
As far as best selection, I really don’t know the answer. I’ve not had a problem finding the ones I need from either Cutting Edge or Eduard.
HTH,
Mark
I’ve used BlackMagic masks, and they’re really good. The problem with precut masks is that they tend to be very expensive. It’s a matter of time vs money. Spend $6 per aircraft for masks, or spend 1 hour masking the canopies. After having spent way too much money on masks in the past 6 months, I’m going back to using tape or latex to mask my canopies. Just more economical. But that’s just my $.02 [:D]
Haven’t done an actual count, but from perusing the sites, I think Eduard has the largest selection with Black Magic ( Meteor Productions) a close second. I haven’t used many as I think the cost is prohibitive, but I have used a couple from each source with pretty good results. However, I still prefer to mask using my own methods.
Regards, Rick
Meteor Productions or Roll Models also have pre cut masks by various manufacturers.
Dean
True Details makes a canopy framing set called “Fast Frames”. They’re actually decals cut to the exact shape of the canopy frame that you want to paint. All you do is paint them the desired color, wait for the paint to dry enough to handle them (if you let the paint dry too much, the paint will crack when you form the frames over the canopy), dip them in water, and slide them on to your canopy. Squadron sells them, and HobbyTown USA sells them as well. They cost about $2 per set, and each set will give you enough pre-cut frames for two kits (of the same plane, of course).
I primarily use Eduard masks,also E-Z Masks. True, Eduard’s come loose,but only if thry’re left on too long. I think they have the best assortment. The only thing I don’t like is using masker. The last time I used Micro-mask, it pulled the Eduard masks away as it dried,so I fill in with Tamiya masking tape now. I get all mine from Roll Models.
Aww you had me going there. I love fast frames, and I haven’t been able to find them anywhere. I searched Squadron and True Details only has wheels and cockpit sets, not a fast frame in sight. Those things are great, you just paint them, wet them, and press them on, and as a bonus you can cut the excess film into even more frames.
If they have them at Squadron Shop or anywhere else, I can’t find them.[:(]
Sorry, doggie. I got mine at HobbyTown USA here in Indy. A couple of the other local hobby shops around here carry them as well. I’m surprised that you’re having a hard time finding them. What set are you looking for? I might have what you need…
Nothing in particular, just a source for them. The LHS that used to carry them has closed, and I can’t find them at any internet hobby shops.
Gary, are you saying Indy has at least three LHS that sell AM set, and NYC has none? Let’s hear it for the heartland. These New Yorkers can stick it. Cultural center of the world my butt.
Yep, HobbyTown USA here in Indy carries a lot of decals and resin AND photoetch stuff. They just started doing that maybe 2 years ago. The other three private hobby shops carry some aftermarket stuff, but not as much as HobbyTown does. Of course, they can order anything you want. Most of them have the major catalogues that you can order from. I’m surprised that NYC’s hobby shops don’t carry any aftermarket stuff. Maybe there’s a business opportunity for you there, Tom. Start your own aftermarket business. Sounds like you have a need in the area…[:-^]