Search Tips

Tips categories

Latest Tips

What is the best way to temporarily attach wagon loads?
Posted in: Rolling stock
28th February 2022
There are many ways to attach loads to your wagons: Blu Tack, double sided sticky tape and magnets are just a few,...
Read more
What adhesives should I use to assemble a kit with wooden parts ?
Posted in: Assembling and gluing
13th October 2023
When it comes to assembling a kit with wooden parts, there are a few different adhesives that can be used depending...
Read more
How can I best clean my brushes after using enamel-based paints?
Posted in: Best practices
10th February 2023
Cleaning brushes after using enamel-based paints can be a bit trickier than cleaning them after using water-based...
Read more
What is a NEM pocket?
Posted in: Model Railway, Rolling stock
1st June 2020
NEM couplings are part of a universal coupling system for model railway rolling stock. They were introduced as a...
Read more
How do I fit a decoder to a DCC ready model?
Posted in: Power and control
26th October 2021
The very first time you have to fit a decoder to a DCC ready locomotive can be a little daunting. But worry not,...
Read more

Do I need to weather models to make them appear realistic?

Weathering is an important technique in scale modelling that can greatly enhance the realism of a model. While it is not always necessary, weathering can add depth, character, and a sense of age to any model, making them look more like their real-life counterparts.

When we talk about weathering, we are referring to the process of simulating the effects of time, weather and wear and tear on a model. This can include adding dirt, dust, rust, chipping paint, fading colours, and other signs of aging and use.

By weathering their model, a modeller can create a more realistic representation of the real thing. For example, a weathered locomotive will have a more authentic appearance, with grime and dirt in the nooks and crannies, faded paint on the body, and rust on the metal parts. Similarly, weathering a building can give it a worn and weathered look, with peeling paint, cracked walls and moss or algae growing in the corners.

It's important to note that weathering is not suitable in all cases. Some models may not benefit from weathering, especially when the modeller wants to represent a brand new or well-maintained object. However, for models that are meant to represent older or heavily used objects, weathering can make a significant difference in their realism.

There are many techniques and products available for weathering models, including washes, pigments, powders, and airbrushing. These can be used to simulate different types of weathering effects, such as dirt, rust and fading paint. It is a good idea to experiment with different techniques and materials to find which ones work best for a particular subject.

In conclusion, weathering can greatly enhance the realism of most models. That said, the decision to weather is a subjective choice for the modeller which will be dependent on the type of finish they wish to achieve. It is always a good idea to research and study references of the real thing to understand how weathering affects different objects in real life.

Posted in: Painting

Click here to receive the tips weekly in your mailbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.