German Fokker Streaked Camouflage

Gunsight Graphics, 1/48 scale

Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner

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Recreating the streaked factory camouflage of a Fokker Dr.I has frustrated many World War One modellers.

Just when you think you’ve got it right, the fickle hand of fate steps in and you discover a “run” created by those final two brush strokes. Attempts to correct the mishap only make matters worse. How do I know? Sadly, I’ve been there.

Now, however, there is an easier way. Although many have thought about the idea, it took Gunsight Graphics to bring it to fruition.

Gunsight Graphics has designed a decal to replicate the bands created originally by brushing olive-coloured dope onto the aircraft with an 8cm (3”) brush. This was the Fokker factory’s method of applying camouflage to their triplanes and the angle of application depended on the surface being finished.

The decals come in two blocks with each measuring approximately 24cm x 9.5 cm (9.5” x 3 ¾”).

The density of the pattern is sufficiently varied so that there is no chance of accidently creating a repetitive pattern.

Templates for the decals are an easy affair. Just trace around the desired part before assembly and make sure you allow for any curvatures which will increase the surface area.

After cutting out the shape you require, the product is applied in the same as any other waterslide decal. Soak the backing paper in warm water and when the decal moves freely, slide it onto the gloss surface. Press down gently to remove any air bubbles and if needed, apply your favourite decal setting agent. There should be no problem with the milder solutions but check the stronger stuff on a scrap piece of decal first.

There’s enough on the sheet to easily cater for 3 fully streaked triplanes, even if you use continuous lengths. Naturally more subjects can be covered if a portion of each airframe is taken up with large amounts of squadron or personal décor.

The streaking is printed on a clear background so the modeller gets to choose the colour of linen that will appear through the streaking. If you want, you can even overlap each piece to get a more intensive effect.

This product is not just confined to the famous German triplane; it can also be used to cover early production Fokker D.VIIs as well.

So now we finally have a product that takes all of the hard work out of this enigmatic finish.

A full set of instructions is provided and the production examples will also have some photographic content. In addition, they are also now available in 1:72 scale so stock up on those triplanes and give it a go!

Thanks to Gunsight Graphics for the samples

Gunsight Graphics decals are available from:

Gunsight Graphics
P.O. Box 13355
Arlington, TX 76094
U.S.A.

Text and Images Copyright © 2009 by Rob Baumgartner
This Page Created on 21 April, 2009
Last updated 21 April, 2009

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