3 of 7

Write now Article Tools

Weathering model trains can be done via many modalities. Chalks are the most common, however, it is difficult to get them finely ground manually and they tend to blow off or dissolve in the dull coat.

Bragdon makes a set, but it gets messy over time and it is hit or miss whether it will stick to a given car or paint. It is very difficult to get it to stick to metal. I purchased a 4 color set and ended up with all of the colors getting mixed up together. Once it's messed up, there's no undoing it.

Sophisticated Finishes also makes a rust solution, but it requires you to paint on a thick, black base coat that has metal in it. then a patina solution is painted over the base coat that causes the metal to rust.It is great for items with an overall heavy rust finish, but not for items where you want just a little rust.

Some people have had success with cosmetics. They will work very well, but you need to make sure that you purchase ones that do not have any mica (frost) in the colors. You don't want your trains sparkly. A woman at the National Model Railroad Association conventions recommends MAC cosmetics. Looking at her models I would have to agree that the colors are wonderful for rust, dirt, grime, and dust.

Several companies make weathering paints. I have received advanced notice that Iwata-Medea is coming out with a new set designed by a Master Model Railroader. It will be a 10 color set and is supposed to have some colors that are unique and not made by any other paint manufacturer. The paints will be thin enough to airbrush directly from the bottle or to use as a dry brush paint. It should be on the market by Christmas 2009. Rumor has it that MicroMart will be carrying it.

Once you decide on your method of weathering, then you need to research the car or loco that you are weathering. There are lots of photographs on the web available to help you make a photo match and create realistic weathering on your model. Most hobby and art stores carry a wide variety of artist's brushes. Purchase several ranging from 3/4" wide to 20/0 for the tiny marks. You can never have too many brushes, particularly if you are using numerous colors at once. It will prevent you from having to constantly clean the brushes between colors. It also will let you have some brushes dedicated to the dark colors that are more difficult to wash completely out of the fibers.

Learn more about this author, Blex Croid.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Weathering model trains?
We want to hear your view. Write now!