using masks

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

I will be using masks for the first time on the canopy of the Dornier Do335, both film and liquid. Any tips, suggestions,etc I should be aware of? How do I clean the canopies before airbrushing without damaging or disturbing the masks?

After this project I will attempt the 1/72 scale Blohm & Voss BV 141. (I’m into ugly aircraft lately).

2

What type of masks are you using? Pre-cut masks? If they are the pre-cut masks, you will be spoiled! They are quick and easy. Can’t go wrong with them.

Best thing to do is clean the canopy before you mask it and you won’t have to do it later. But if you do, just a swab with a little alcohol should do the trick. It won’t bother the mask. Don’t get it on the liquid mask though. Work around it.

Andy

3

I got the precut masks. Its funny that it still requires liquid masking on some areas. Some of the precut panels will need to be trimmed too.

I thought alcohol might clean the canopies but I was afraid it may dissolve the masks.

Thanks for the info.

Mike

4

Yeah, I’ve had to use liquid mask on occasion as well for those compound curves that masks can’t cover. No sweat though, it’s still the way to go. You may have to trim the masks too. Better too big than not big enough. Just use a NEW xacto blade when trimming. Like I said, you will be spoiled. And the cool thing is, they offer a lot of masks for many kits. I use them for every kit I do if available.

Andy

5

I have never had success with these. The problem is they alway stretch before they come off and, as a result, cause the paint to tear, flake, crumble or otherwise leave an unacceptable looking edge…

6

3 ways to minimise this:

  • Remove the mask when the paint has dried, but not fully hardened
  • Run the tip of your knife lightly around the edge of the mask to score a “break line” in the paint before removing the mask.
  • When removing the mask, pull it back over itself at a sharp angle - don’t pull it straight up.