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What is an autofrog and where would it be used on a layout?
Posted in: Power and control
7th April 2023
An autofrog is a type of track switch that is designed to simplify wiring and eliminate the need for additional...
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How can I create a reversing loop with Y-shaped turnout on my layout?
Posted in: Tracks
16th November 2023
A reversing loop is a section of track that allows a train to change direction without reversing. Reversing loops can...
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How to make realistic trees?
Posted in: Design and Planning, Scenery
31st October 2019
If you do not want to buy pre-made trees, which these days look very realistic, you can get tree armatures which are...
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How do I glue balsa wood?
Posted in: Assembling and gluing, Best practices
17th July 2019
That would very much depend on what it is you are trying to glue the balsa wood to, if you are gluing it to another...
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Where is the best place to store my layout when not in use?
Posted in: Model Railway
10th February 2023
One of the trickiest issues with operating a model train layout is where to store it when not in use. There are a...
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How do I create rust streaks?

Creating rust streaks on well-used wagons and scrapped vehicles is a great way to add realism to your model railway layout, but how is it done?

Creating rust streaks is no different than many other aspects of modelling in the respect that you can go as far as you want to create effects of varying depth and integrity. But if you are just starting out, you could always try some basic techniques to build your confidence first.

The most basic rust streaks can be easily achieved using just a couple of colours. The main colour (not surprisingly) is rust and can be readily sourced from all good modelling stockists, the second colour is a much darker brown. You will also require some thinners (relevant to the type of paint being used), a paintbrush with a pointed tip and another brush, this time with a squarish tip.

Using the pointed paintbrush, add small dots of rust colour to your model in a random pattern but in the general area where you would expect rust to develop.

Next, take the square-tipped brush and dip the very end into a small amount of thinner. Dab any excess fluid onto a paper towel and apply. Using only the minimal amount of pressure, start at the rust spot and lightly tickle the thinner in a downwards direction. Remember that the rust streak would have only run downwards in real life, so be careful not to smudge the rust spot above its original location.

When you're happy with the length and appearance of the streaks, allow them to dry. Next, again take the brush with the pointed tip and apply a spot of dark brown paint to all of the same locations the original rust spots where applied. These spots should be much smaller than the original rust-coloured spots as the effect that you are trying to create consists of a small thin dark streak within a much larger rust-coloured streak. The dark brown spots should be streaked downwards in exactly the same way as the original rust ones, being mindful that the effect this time should be much subtler.

If you're happy with the effect, allow the model to dry before adding any further weathering. However, if you're not entirely happy with it, don't worry, you can always gently remove it using more thinners, but in either case, it's always advisable to practice on a scrapped model first.

Posted in: Painting

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