applying a wash for weathering help

[GF]

I'm not good when it comes to weathering, I mostly use pastels which is easy to control but I want to apply a wash, what is the safest easiest method, oil, acrylic ect...?
after some research oil paints thinned with mineral sprits seems to be the preference, I was leaning towards a water base paint thinned with water or pastel chalks thinned with water not sure what's the safest, I assume pastel with water, I don't want to ruin the finish of my models so any tips would be greatly appreciated, BTW my model has been painted using Tamiya spray paints and clear coated using Tamiya clear gloss coat from spray can.



Thank you!
Gerardo

 

[Albertese]

It all depends on what look you're trying to achieve. I've found that the flatness/glossiness of the surface makes a huge difference, for one thing. If you apply a wash to a glossy surface, you're gong to get very stark borders as it dries, but if you go over a matte surface, you tend to get much more gradual transitions.

I usually start with a flat or satin finish and then sit down with some acrylic paints and a soup can full of water and start applying the wash with a biggish brush. I put it on very heavy and then use a second brush that is bone dry to wick away the wash on areas where I want it to be lighter. Sometimes I'll smear it around with my fingers to get the effect I want. And I usually won't just use black. If I'm going for a dirty or rusty look, it's a good idea to use some browns and muted reds, also.

Again, though, it all depends on what your aim is. If you've never done it before and are timid to try it on your good model, I would recommend practicing it on something, even maybe a toy from a thrift store. Paint the toy with the same paints you have on your model and just experiment on it until you get a handle on it. You'll catch on quickly, though. It isn't very difficult. In fact, it's one of my more favorite parts of modeling!

--Alex

 

[trekriffic]

Weathering represents the greatest freedom of expression for modellers I think.