1:72 Red Stripes

Techmod 72083 — red stripes in 1:72 scale

The Red Stripes sheet from the Polish maker Techmod, part number 72083, belongs to a line of decals that are not the finished marking of a particular machine but a blank. The sheet carries red stripes from which the modeler cuts exactly as long a piece as he needs. The same line also comes in other colors — black 72080, white 72081, yellow 72082, silver 72084 and gold 72085 — so check before buying that you really are getting the red one. Check the range of stripe widths and their number on the box.

What the stripes are used for

Striped markings are among the most frequent details missing from the sheet that comes with a model: recognition bands on the wings and fuselage, color trim on the rudder, markings of command machines, stripes on propeller spinners, color rings on rockets and bombs, or the hard-edged division of a two-tone camouflage. Red is universal in this respect: it turns up with the air forces of practically every country, and on racing and aerobatic machines it tends to be the main color of the decoration.

Application tips

Apply the decals onto a gloss base; on matte paint silvered edges form under the film. Cut the stripe with a sharp scalpel along a ruler, and run a longer piece in one go rather than in sections — the join tends to show. Over edges and rivet lines a decal softener and careful pressure with a cotton swab will help. Once dry, give the whole thing a clear coat so the edges of the stripe sink into the surface.

Who the sheet is for

• Modelers who make up their own or unusual markings
• Builds of machines with recognition bands and color trim
• Repairs and additions to sheets where only a stripe is missing
• Every subject in 1:72 scale, from wartime aircraft to racers

This is a decal sheet, not a kit. The basic kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.