If you are using an aerosol spray paint you should always use one. Always read the manufacturer’s...
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What are tree armatures and what advantages do they offer a modeller?Read moreTree armatures are a popular tool used by model railway and scale modellers to create realistic trees and foliage for...
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How do I model moss?Read moreMoss is evident in much of the natural world as well as many darker or damp locations within the built environment,...
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Why did warships wear dazzle camouflage patterns?Read moreDazzle Camouflage patterns were first introduced during the First World war in order to protect warships and merchant...
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How can I best create wet road surfaces and pavements on my layout to simulate a rainy day?Read moreSimulating seasonal variations is a common theme for many modellers who wish to model specific times of the year,...
How can I model fuel or oil stains on track?
Oil spills and evidence of oil leaks are a common feature of many railway tracks around engine depots and at the end of station platforms where locomotives have been stood idling, but how is it modelled?
Choosing a paint to represent oil spills is easy as there are many purpose-made modelling paints available to achieve exactly that effect, AK Interactive's Fresh Engine Oil being just one. However, if you prefer to use paints that you already have lying around, consider whether you want your oil stains to look fresh. If you do, use a gloss paint, if you don't, a flatter finish would be more appropriate.
Paint aside, the real secret to realistic oil spills is the use of a caking agent first. This can be anything fine and powdery, with some modellers having experienced decent results using household talcum powder while others prefer to use a really fine ballast. Once you have decided upon a substance to use, it should be applied and set on top of your original ballast in the usual way using a PVA/water mix with a drop of washing up liquid added.
The effect that the caking agent closely replicates is the gunky and congealed consistency that a real oil slick would exhibit, but be careful to use it conservatively, you can always add more if required.
Posted in: Tracks
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