1:48 Douglas A-1 Skyraider Vietnam Era Camouflage Paint Masks Set

The real subject

The Douglas A-1 Skyraider is an American propeller-driven attack aircraft which held on in service long after the arrival of jets. It was valued for its ability to stay over the battlefield for hours and to carry a considerable load on the pylons under the wing, which in Southeast Asia made it a mainstay in supporting ground units and in rescue missions. On a model it is an aircraft with a massive fuselage and a large wing area, so the camouflage takes up large continuous areas on it and every inaccuracy in a transition shows.

What the masks solve

The set brings masks blocking off the individual fields of the camouflage scheme, so you do not have to judge the boundaries between the colors freehand or build them up from tape. The shape of the fields is given by the real subject rather than by improvisation, and it repeats identically on both sides of the model. The main benefit lies exactly in the fact that the scheme can be repeated accurately and that the transitions come out symmetrically.

Usage tips

The masks are applied to the finished and properly cured coat of the previous color, that is always before spraying the next one and never after it. The surface must be clean and degreased, otherwise paint will creep under the edge. Press the mask down along the whole length of the edge, and on rounded areas run it in sections and do not stretch it. Spray perpendicular to the edge and rather lightly; paint creeping under the edge arises mainly when it is driven from the side. Take the mask off as soon as the paint has flashed off rather than after it has fully cured, and pull it back at an angle across the surface rather than upward.

Terms of supply

The masks alone are supplied. The model, paints and clear coat are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise. Cut masks are tied to the shapes of a particular kit, so check compatibility in the manufacturer's information.