John,
basically done using 3/4" tape. Criss-cross the tape, then cut them. Be
very careful not to cut into the paint.
Also, believe it or not, I did the checkerboard last (after the flames)
I used "blue pearl" over the candy blue.
I did this set for a "demo" paint set for a show (wanted something bright!) I went to--- Great response at the show!!! Did this in 4 days once the bw on the tanks were done. The checkerboard was more or less an afterthought.