Paint Masks for unit markings . . .

Most people will traditionally use paint masks for the main insignia and numbers on their models, but with care and a little ingenuity it is possible to get some amazing results with other markings that would otherwise be water slide, dry rub, or even stickers!

The unit badge opposite is typical of the type of markings people would veer away from paint masks.  Well here is how I can help you make a perfect result for your special markings with paint!!

Colour separation

First off I draw the motif or design from pictures that are available in various reference books, or indeed supplied by the customer.   Next, because the marking is going to be sprayed I break the image down into layers of individual colours.  This process usually defines the order of colour application.

I also try to keep to a minimum the number of paint layers that will be needed.

For this marking there are 4 plates for each colour:  black, yellow, red, and white, but there will only be 2 layers of paint in any one area!

Preparation.

As with any paint operation you should prepare your work area and paint correctly.  This page is not about the finer details but more can be found in the instruction area - click here.

The first black mask goes on after careful consideration for the position of the decal.  Naturally the first decal is the most important as it sets the position for the registration pins etc.

A special thank you . . .

To Di & Dave who have kindly provided this picture sequence of the unit badge application to a 109. Di & Dave provide painting services for modellers and work as part of the "crew" at Tiger Models.

And there you have it.  Authentic looking nose art painted on the model as it should be!

Flightline Graphics - perfect insignia, every time!

Once again a special thanks to Di & Dave for arranging these pictures from a recent restoration project.