Soft Edge Masks

This is my method for making soft edge masks. This method can be used to create mottles,
overpainted markings, camouflage patterns, etc.

Step 1.

Draw the pattern on paper. You can do it with a pencil, or, as in this case, draw the pattern on a computer and print it.

Glue the paper patterns to cardboard using paper glue.

Step 2.

With a cutter, cut out the pattern. It does not have to be perfect.

Step 3.

Attach the pattern to the model. In this case, I used masking tape, which was also used to mask the surrounding areas.

Hint: “Crosshairs” were drawn to assist in aligning the pattern with panel lines on the model.

The “softness” of the edge can be varied by changing the distance between the mask and the model:
Closer to the model = sharper. Further from the model = softer.

You can insert small pieces of cardboard between the mask and the model to change the distance between them.

When ready, mist the paint with an airbrush at low pressure at a 90^o angle or as close to that as possible. Build up the paint slowly.

Step 4.

Remove the mask.

That is it.

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