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All you need to know about ageing models
A number of ageing products can be used to create effects on a model. Combine the right techniques to achieve a realistic result.
Modelling: ageing techniques and products
How do you age a model?
To make models look realistic, model makers combine several weathering techniques. Using a weathering kit, this method involves adding relief to give a natural weathered appearance.
What is Washes or Pencil outlining?
The aim of this technique is to make shadows appear. To achieve this, use :
- Oil paint;
- Diluted enamel;
- A very thin pencil.
Start with the most visible shadows to highlight the small details of: Hollows; Rivers; Panels; Etc.
What is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing requires the use of enamel or oil paint to reproduce the bright areas. One of the oldest techniques in modelling, this method leaves a more noticeable, non-realistic effect. However, it is still practical for displaying peeling paintwork, such as bare metal.
What are filters used for?
To change the tone of a painting, this technique is effective when used with enamel or a ready-to-use diluted product. Filters can also be used to:
- Add chromatic richness;
- Darken or lighten the model;
- Touch up incorrect tints.
Use a pure solvent to eliminate unwanted effects.
What is the purpose of the Streaking effect?
The Streaking effect is used to create a flowing effect of water, oil, rust, fuel, etc. on the surface of a machine. The products to use are :
- Diluted enamel or oil;
- Varnish mixed with diluted and tinted paint.
What is the purpose of fading or shading?
Using oil, enamel and pigment, fading brings out the chromatic richness of a surface. It helps to break up the uniformity of the surface and add a few colour variations. To accentuate ageing, use colours that are different from the base colour.
What is dusting?
To make the finish dirty, use earth pigment, pastel and diluted enamel. For dusting, simply tint the paints with pigment mixed with binder and solvent. Then apply the mixture to the model using a clean brush. You can also use decorating clay.
What is the Chipping Effect?
The Chipping Effect is used to reproduce Slave l or chipped paint using :
- A brush ;
- Foam ;
- Salt ;
- Masking fluid or lacquer;
- Maskol.
What other ageing effects are there?
Graphite combined with certain pigments and paint is also a practical ageing product for imitating metal. You can combine several techniques such as micro chipping or Dry Brush to bring out the rust. To darken or lighten part of your model, airbrushing is an option.
With an airbrush, the Exhaust stain effect lets you reproduce exhaust smoke. The mud/snow technique is a simple way of creating wet or dry mud and snow. A great classic: you can strip the model to create an ageing effect. Be careful when applying the paint, as paint strippers are dangerous.
