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Modellers
used to think that weathering was for trains, or military models.
Even Aircraft builders used it somewhat on a limited basis.
But
today, it's a big deal. I think people are tired of doing perfect
paint jobs in the past. Making everything exact and just the way
a new vehicle might have looked. Fresh from the factory.
Now
weathering has expanded into everything, including car and truck
models. Now a modeler can forget about the perfect shiny paint
job. Just weather it into a rusty junker, or make it look well
worn and more "real" to everyday life.
Of
course, like any modelling technique, there will be folks who
take a new idea to the limits. But that's ok. There are numerous
books on how to weather vehicles, so anyone can try it. I find
it less stressful. And somewhat more fun to do. In many cases,
it looks more realistic on the finished model.
You
can make Apocalypse type vehicles, old barn finds, rusted out
hulks. Anything goes.
It
does take a bit of artistic ability, but it's much more forgiving
than getting that ultra shiny paint job on a model car.
Ready
to get down and dirty? Weather it!
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These
are supplies for weathering your models.
Any vehicle, from
tanks to cars to trucks, can benefit and look more realistic
with weathering effects
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Weathering
Faded |
Silver
Metallic Pencil
A pencil like this is an easy way to show
use on painted model parts. You can run it along sharp corners,
or make small patches where paint has chipped off during normal
wear and tear.
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Chalks can be very useful. Simply rub the chalk over some rough sandpaper on your model desk. Use a brush to dab into that chalk dust and apply it to a model. Use different size brushes depending on the look you need and coverage. (I have brushes set aside that I only use with chalks to avoid contamination with paint)
Chalk to me is more realistic than weathering paint in most cases.
It's "3 dimensional". It has texture. You can apply it to rubber parts (such as tires and hoses) and not have to worry about it not drying like paints can do.
Chalks are available in different colors. I recommend a color set, and then a set with white to black shades. Often black and grays will be used the most, but browns are good for rust and other looks, and make a model more realistic when blended.
Copper and brass can have a green patina so greens and browns are useful too - making a color set essential.
It's always good to shoot a matte coat of finish over the model when done to seal the chalk to the model. Otherwise chalk will rub off if you handle the model.
Wedge Sponge Blenders
Dusty and
rusty truck models with character.
Use to
make junk cars look like a burned out shell.
Use chalk
on a base to look like real dirt and dust.
Use weathering
powders to make surface rust.
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