WEATHERING by Alan Olson

Some Common Weathering Methods

1-Chalks
2-Distressing
3-Staining
4-Patinas


Use several types of weathering on each model, remember natural weathering has many sources;
i.e., the sun, water, chemicals and mechanical wear. Learn to see the way in which the weathering has occurred and what the results are. This
usually takes longer than learning how to apply weathering to models. Study prototypes and
write down what has happened and where. Take photos if possible or make simple sketches.

Practice on scrap material before starting on that particular model you want weathered.

1-Chalk weathering;
    a. Easy to learn and apply
    b. Very forgiving, can be changed until fixative is applied
    c. Can be used to add colors in place of paint
    d. Realistic results
    e. Requires fixative to be permanent


         I - Chalks in sets or individually. Browns, blacks, grays, white and yellow
             ocre. Can be mixed like paint.
         II - 120 or finer grit sand paper for powdering
         III - 1/8", 1/2" and 3/4" wide flat soft bristle brushes
         IV - Brush on layer, if satisfied spray on a light dusting of fixative. Repeat
             this until desired intensity is achieved.
         V - Chalk washes with Testor's Dullcote and rubbing alcohol.


2-Distressing
     a. Takes some practice to learn
     b. Not very forgiving
     c. Can be used on wood or plastic and soft metals


        I - Saw blades, wire brushes and coarse sandpaper for graining
        II - Drill small holes and use an X-acto #11 blade to carve in
            grain around knot holes
        III - Use a sharp knife to remove material from edges of high wear areas
        IV - 320 wet and dry sand paper does a good job of removing fuzz caused by graining


3-Stains;
    a. Some control of intensity, but permanent
    b. Easy to apply
    c. Realistic finishes


        I - Commercial brands
        II - India ink, alcohol based-water based
        III - Tube acrylics (add detergent)
        IV - Bottle acrylics (do not add detergent)
        V - Simulate spilled liquids with thin viscosity CA of acrylic gloss medium.
(Gloss medium can be tinted with other acrylics)

4-Patinas;

    a. Easy to apply
    b. Several finishes available
    c. Chemicals used are usually toxic, instructions should be followed


        I - Wash part in soap and water, rinse and let air dry before using patina.
            Do not use metal tools to handle parts.
        II - Some color variation may occur depending on composition of the
            metal being treated.
        III - If the results are not dark enough the first time, wash, rinse and dry
            the part and treat again in fresh solution.