How to Use our Multi-Layered Masks

Masking insignia and other custom multi-color markings doesnโ€™t have to be complicated.

Designed to deliver precise, painted-on results, these sets follow a structured layering process that ensures proper alignment and clean, sharp edges. Some of our newer sets incorporate an alignment hole system to help guide each layer into place, making positioning more accurate and repeatable.

This guide walks you through the recommended steps for applying layered masks for insignia, codes, and other multi-color elementsโ€”so you can build each layer with confidence and achieve a consistent, professional finish.

To apply, follow these simple steps:ย 


Step 1: Model Prep
  • a: Prepare model surface as desired, ensuring that the painted surface won't be damaged when paint masks are applied and then removed. This may involve the use of clear coats.
  • b: Determine the exact location of the marking and use small strips of tape or lightly-applied pencil marks as guides.

Step 2: Apply First Mask Layer
  • a: Cut the first (largest) mask in the painting sequence from the masking sheet. This can be Oramask vinyl or Tamiya tape.
  • b: Cut a piece of clear transfer tape from the transfer tape sheet to match the size of the masking piece from step 2a.
  • c: Remove the backing from the transfer tape piece, using a hobby knife or a pair of tweezers.
  • d: To reduce the stickiness of the transfer tape, gently tap it on a piece of smooth material. Repeat two or three times.
  • e: Carefully apply the transfer tape piece to the masking piece, ensuring that it covers the masking piece entirely.
  • f: Using a dull flat object like a plastic card, wooden stick, or fingernail edge, lightly burnish (rub) the transfer tape piece onto the masking piece to improve adhesion.
  • g: Remove the backing from the masking piece, using a hobby knife and a pair of tweezers, being careful not to remove the masking piece from the transfer tape piece.
  • h: Apply the transfer tape/masking piece to the desired location on the model. Be careful not to stretch the mask material.
  • i: Using a dull flat object like a plastic card, wooden stick, or fingernail edge, lightly rub the transfer tape/masking piece onto the model's surface to improve adhesion.
  • j: Remove the transfer tape piece from the masking piece using a hobby knife and a pair of tweezers, being careful not to remove the masking piece from the model surface. The transfer tape may be kept for future use.
  • k: Using a hobby knife and a pair of tweezers, remove the mask sections of the inner portions of the overall mask, and the masks in the four small alignment holes, exposing the modelโ€™s surface for painting. A single rectangular mask piece should be all that remains.
  • l: Lift a corner of the mask and place a small square of masking tape between the 2mm alignment hole in the mask piece and the model surface, sticking the small square of masking tape to the model. Repeat for all four alignment holes. Depending on the model's surface topology, it may not be possible to do this for all four alignment holes. In this case, a minimum of two holes is required.
  • m: Using a pen or a black Sharpie marker, color in each alignment hole to leave a mark on the small square of masking tape, for future alignment of subsequent masks.
  • n: Lightly burnish the masking piece onto the model surface to seal the edge of the mask, being careful not to damage the mask.
  • o: Mask the immediate areas around the masking piece to prevent overspray or brush-applied paint from accidentally being applied to the model surface in the wrong location.
Step 3: Paint the First Layer
  • a: Ideally using an airbrush for the best result (a traditional artist's brush may be used too), apply three or four very thin coats of paint, allowing appropriate time for each coat to dry. The end result should be an evenly-colored coat. Over-application of paint could result in an uneven, blotchy finish, with a jagged edge after the mask is removed. If the model's surface has a dark color, application of a light color on top may require more coats to adequately cover the dark background. An option to consider in this case is to apply a thin white coat first, and then the desired color.

Step 4: Remove the First Mask Layer
  • a: After the paint has adequately dried, remove the masking piece from the model surface using a hobby knife and a pair of tweezers, being careful not to scratch the model surface. โš ๏ธ Important: DO NOT remove the small masking tape squares that are marked with the alignment hole positions. These must remain on the model throughout the painting process to ensure accurate alignment of the masks.
  • b: Allow the first layer to dry completely to minimize the chance of damage when subsequent mask layers are applied. Do not rush to the next step.

Step 5: Apply Subsequent Mask Layers
  • a: Depending on the marking, two, three, and four layers of different colors will be needed. Repeat Steps 2, 3, and 4 for each subsequent color, in the order of largest to smallest.
Note: Steps 2-l and 2-m are not repeated, as they have already been installed once.

*Addendum to Step 2-h: When applying subsequent masks, use the previously-applied alignment hole marks to accurately locate the mask, starting with one alignment hole corner. This may require multiple applications and removals of the mask to align all holes. Do not stretch or distort the mask; allow it to lie naturally over the alignment hole marks.

Step 6: Complete the Marking
  • a: After all color layers have been applied and the last mask removed, remove the small masking tape squares from the model surface using a hobby knife and a pair of tweezers, being careful not to scratch the model surface.
  • b: Apply clear coat as desired and weather your model appropriately.


Visual Guide for RAF Roundels

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Visual Guide for USAF Insignia