Experimentation, as always, will be the best way to learn how to use these mixtures. Dip brush in wash bottle and swipe it across a wing...rub it in with my finger, I just keep going until it's almost dry, then move on to another section. In the photo above we have MIG ready prepared enamel wash together with oil paint and white spirit to use as an oil paint wash. Be sure to add a small amount of chips to your tail feather’s leading edges. A sepia or dark brown ink is best for most surfaces. Painter's Secret: Wet a brush and "paint" water over the areas you want to wash. Then apply the wash in smaller, less diluted quanties. The wash will flow over the wet areas easily. acrylic wash over enamel base coat. Washes are nice for that shabby chic look. For larger models, I might only wash half, before cleaning it up and moving on. Just … Our community is FREE to join. Please don’t stop now. "Sludge wash" = get a big brush and literally slop it all over the model, wait a bit ( the time depends on the kind of was used ) then wipe it off. The aims of putting a wash on a model are to enhance the surface detail increase the appearance of depth. Your site is exactly what was required and I love every minute of it. They are water and clay based and available only from the UK. This tutorial sets out the theory and practice of using a paint wash to improve the appearance of a scale model. Ray Monaco: Hi Guys (Newbie Here) I just bought some war airplane kit (s... Bob Martin: Really great tutorial! This creates an even wash of pale tint. The water based wash won't "eat" into the lacquer. Bob, Hi Bob, You're quite good at this. By the way – enjoy your retirement and unleash some serious modelling ! Hold the can 10–12 in (25–30 cm) away from the model and spray in quick, even strokes until you’ve … The rule is that a wash is lightly colored thinner, not thinned paint. It includes a step-by-step guide on how to apply a wash. Have you ever tried a color washed effect? The wings take a beating. Threads on washes are frequently found in both the Techniques forum and the Painting and Airbrushing forum. As such a wash is normally applied to small areas on a model with a small brush and will be allowed to flow along panel lines. Artist's waterproof acrylic inks are best for this. This tutorial sets out the theory and practice of using a paint wash to improve the appearance of a scale model. Introduction This tutorial will provide a step-by-step guide to a ... Read More » How to Use Paint Washes to Create Depth. For this recipe, I used an empty 1oz. Learn to Paint: the Basics - How to Wash. I read a lot in Fine Scale Modelers magazine about modelers applying washes to models. I regularly worked the morning shift and with all this free time, I got to batch paint a lot of models for the store, other stores … If you paint with enamels then make the wash from acrylics. I’m Randi, a Dallas-based mom of five kids, ranging from third grade to c Pour one part paint into a large container. Originally, modellers had to mix their own washes from normal modeller’s or artist’s paint. I plan on trying this on the 1/72 scale plane I am building now. As an example, water will run down or even pool on a given vehicle to cause rusting. I use either artists oils or enamel paint and turpentine or thinner from Home Depot. Make sure that you are using chalk pastels, not oil pastels. The wash technique is an easy way to create a watercolor effect for your painting’s background. How do you make a wash and how is it applied? And a surfactant (something that reduces the surface tension of water). Acrylic wash layers go undisturbed and unchanged when you add fresh layers to the painting, making acrylic washes a great staple that's affordable and easy to make. The model is a ‘stunt double’ that I use for practice work. If using acrylics or watercolors, paint quickly or wet the canvas with water first to avoid brushstrokes since watercolors and acrylics dry quickly. With some practice, you can use this technique to wash just the areas you want. This both protects your paintjob and provides a really smooth surface for the wash to flow. We paint all the base colours (walls, roof etc) before adding the ink wash. 05. Start with black mixed with burnt sienna...very little paint and a whole lot of thinner. Furthermore, a wash needs to be applied to a gloss or semi-gloss surface, whereas a filter is best applied to a matt/flat finish. It works just as well on tanks, ships and … I like it because it doesn't have too long of a drying time and if you mess up, it's easy to clean with more water. 04 of 08. Scrape some dust from the chalk onto a piece of foil or paper, using the back of a hobby knife blade. ( there's many combinations ) That way the thinner in the wash will not affect or etch the base coat of paint. Ink wash. A wash will normally be darker than the base colour, whereas a filter is likely to have the same tonal value i.e not darker or lighter, but will be a different colour. I then load my mop brush with a lot of paint and wash it onto the wet paper, working across the paper and allowing the water to carry the paint down the surface. The small size of models means that surface details may not be very visible. We do not sell, rent or trade our email lists. Now time I got, money I don't. Once dry (which can take frickin hours, unless you have a hair dryer handy!) I've been asked so many times to go into some more detail about making a black wash for terrain/tiles. For larger models, I might only wash half, before cleaning it up and moving on. I do have to say that Flory Washes are just amazing. don’t try to mix it, just enough to get some of the oil drawn into the turpenoid. The purpose of the ink wash is to add shadow and depth to the finished model, and to blend the base colours together. It can be used anywhere on a model from cockpits to wheel wells, engines to weapons. Try a "sludge wash" made with the acrylic paint and a bit of liquid detergent or soap. Scale Model Guide © Copyright 2013, All Rights Reserved. 39 Comments . "pin wash "= use a tiny brush and dot it on a panel line so it will run into the line, then wipe off the excess. in Weathering I also use acrylic craft paints. Cars and motorbikes can rust right through, while more robust, armoured vehicles tend to only show surface rust. In this tutorial we explain the beginning steps on choosing and using washes on your miniatures. Make sure the wash doesn’t pool too much on the surface of your model. Thank you! On my bench: Hasegawa 1/32 Fw190-F8 crash diorama. There are beginners out here that need you. Thanks to all for the great feedback. It also provides a comparision between a traditional ‘mix-it-yourself’ oil paint wash and ready made enamel wash from ‘MIG Productions’. The photograph on the left shows a wash being applied to a pebble that was found in the garden and is being used as a rock on a display base. It also does so much more. However, that is the only similarity between them. (Both by a soft fine-hair brush) Set the building up right, the way it will be on the layout, and apply the wash. -or- Lay the building on it's side and paint the wash on the horizontal surafce only. Great Site Kris! A filter is intended to affect the entire paint surface equally and subtley change the colour and tone. Many types of paint can be used – oil, enamal, acrylic and even soluble water colours. I learned a lot about the weathering... Kevin Smith: Hi, you are great master of paint brushes! It also provides a comparision between a traditional ‘mix-it-yourself’ oil paint wash and ready made enamel wash from ‘MIG Productions’. you can use a cotton-bud/make-up applicator and alcohol … Let’s first discuss this finish and when you’d want to use it. Let it dry (20mins) 3. Age, environment, shape, construction, and level of maintenance will all affect how a scale model should be weathered. This works over any base coat I've used. There is sometimes confusion between a wash and a filter. I've tried using pastel dust mixed in water with mixed results, but some guys swear by this technique and it's worth a try, you may like it better. View our. Paint washes do not have to be restricted to your model. This is not just because the details are small, but because items like hinges and panel lines on the model will not cast shadows the way the full-size object would. The weathering wash is the easiest way to create the best looking panel lines and weathering in no time with three easy steps, 1. brush or airbrush it on the model. Sign in to get access to the BEST on the web video tutorial - see a sneak preview here: In our friendly step-by-step video guide we cover topics like: drybrushing, applying washes, applying decals  and many more. However, there are now ranges of ready made washes available. It includes a step-by-step guide on how to apply a wash. What truly makes a model look real is when it looks used. Hi Kris, HA HA Painting tools are cleaned with water. Posted by: Kris I’ve been promising and promising you that I’ll share how to make make a wash effect with paint. It is complimented by dry brushing which aims to highlight raised areas. Flaking and chipped paint is a must. Howdy RoyalID and welcome to the forums and the hobby. You can airbrush Citadel washes to use as a glaze. The effect they produce is really outstanding. That's why I paint my plastic models with acrylics and then use oil paint washes which work much better for me. I’m doing some research for scale modelling, so when I get all the materials I need, I won’t be totally lost…thanx! Do not miss out! However, the most popular type is made from artists’ oil paint, sometimes mixed with modeller’s enamel paint. The pictures below show the application of a chalk wash to a model painted with acrylics, then gloss-coated with Future floor wax (clear acrylic). Just to piggy back on what Jay Jay said, I use craft acrylic paints for my washes. If you put a wash over a flat finish, it will stain. If your model is made out of a variety of materials, primer will help produce a uniform color. A wash is also good for giving depth to scenery, figures and in fact, any surface where there is a distinct texture or raised details. After a dark wash the wheels appear to have much more detail. Once the brush is loaded, go back to your panel lines and apply that. Paint the model in the desired base colour (or colours). Wipe it off with some damp kitchen roll. Use a white, spray primer if you need to prime a surface. Thus a filter will normally be applied very sparingly with a large area brush. Enter Your Name and Email Address Below to Get Started! MIG productions make a series of ready-to-use washes based on enamel paint. I can imagine how much work you have to put into a project of this type to make it a success, well it IS! I’m just starting modelling again having retired from work, and needed a brush up to say the least. Step 1 Measure and pour 5 milliliters of acrylic paint into a 1-oz. A filter is sometimes used to blend different camouflage colours together, or tone down the base coat. For a typical 1/72 fighter, I'll "wash" the whole thing, before wiping away the excess with a soft, damp cloth. The wash technique can enhance the surface details in many places as indicated by the red circles. This is what allows the wash to settle down into the crevices of the model, rather than “pooling” on the surface. If so, join to receive updates and receive FREE He-162 Painting & Weathering Video Guide. The 1 to 3 ratio is more concentrated and produces more noticeable results, while the 1 to 6 ratio is more diluted and produces softer, subtle changes in surface, color, and texture. I personally use a stereoscopic Micros... Jim Hennessy: That is extremely cool! Like my f... He-162 Painting & Weathering FREE Video Guide. I put a little bit in a baby food jar (I have a lot of those since my youngest just turned 1) and add water until it's pretty thin. The trick is to use a different kind of paint than your base coat ie. Find a disposable receptacle that will hold about half a gallon of liquid. on the web video tutorial - see a sneak preview here: In our friendly step-by-step video guide we cover topics like: Support Atlantis Model company kick-starter campaing, Model Photography Part5 – Image Editing & Realistic Setting, Step by step Guide to Apply Realistic Paint Chips and Wear with Salt. bottle. To make this wash, the recipe is:-1 part paint (I used Citadel Chaos Black);-3-4 parts matte medium; -and 3-4 parts water. A wash is aimed at selective parts of a model to make areas that should be dark look darker. Of course that means that … thank you for gre... Roman: Great use! When I was working at a Games Workshop retail store, we were in a mall and therefore required to open at 9AM, but very few gamers came in before 4:30 after school let out and later when people got out of work. Just lightly tap … The natural versatility of acrylic paints and mediums allows for a wide range of uses. A wash is a very thin paint mix. Thank you! Once you get that wash in, you switch to tray A. Stir the brush lightly in the puddle of turpenoid around the paint blob…. To an extent, the wash technique is a little like painting shadows and darkness. As Jay said, make sure that you have a barrier coat otherwise if you used an enamel paint then use a solvent wash, your paint runs the possibility of getting lifted or cracked. Too many models to build, not enough time in a lifetime!! They are great for this purpose. I find that solvent type washes spread and run much better than acrylic washes, specially panel line washes. The longer a wash sits on the model, the harder it is to get it cleaned up! 3 Comments I use enamel paints exclusively, with clear lacquer gloss over top. The tracks on the right have received a wash of rust coloured paint. Acrylic and watercolor paint will never, ever behave the same way, but a wash can do wonders make acrylic paint more watercolor-like. It is common to put a protective layer of varnish on the base coat of paint before applying a wash. 2. Washes are used at varying concentrations: most commonly 1 part material to 3 parts water or 1 part material to 6 parts water. From left to right: Panel line around hatch; grill; shadow around lift ring; ridges on jerry can and hinges on roof hatch. Squeaky-clean has its merits, but the model that's sure to generate attention and comment is the one that looks like it might smell of hot glycol or burnt kerosene. While thinning acrylic paint with water to make washes is pretty simple and direct, mixing glazes can be a bit more complex, both in the options available and in how they can be used and function in a painting. The washing and dry brushing techniques when used together help to bring a model to life, add realism and create visual impact. Do not overlook these forums just because they are far down on the list. To make an old piece appear aged. A realistic finish comes with the correct mix of smooth paint, accurate colors, and decals that look like they're part of the paint job. Paint a one-toned wash by using thinner or solvent mixed with one color. For a typical 1/72 fighter, I'll "wash" the whole thing, before wiping away the excess with a soft, damp cloth. Thanks mate, More than 1600 people have accessed it so far. This color wash is a super simple paint technique but I love the final washed look and the way the grain of the wood continues to show through it. To apply Citadel washes, merely dip your brush in the pot, then apply liberally over your model. Kris, Download Your FREE HE -162 Painting & Weathering Video Guide. The easiest way to transfer wash from Citadel Pots to your airbrush is with a brush. Work with the wash. ... A simple watercolor wash can tone down the paint and make the details pop. For years, painters used a basic wash of water + paint + dish soap … Well, today is the day! I used disposable pipettes with graduated marking on the side to measure the ingredients. Things can look a little messy at this stage, but I enjoy the spontaneity, seeing how the paint goes down, and it will be worked on and refined later. I like to use artist's oil paint thinned with a good thinner like Turpenoid. I have recently returned to modeling after many years away from the hobby. My answer to this was, as it always is, use a wash. Use roughly 5-8 ounces of paint to provide the base for the color wash. Model Master® Acrylic Washes Click to Enlarge. Aluminium airplanesdon’t rus… “Steel”-colored paint and coarse steel wool make great-looking “chipped” paint. Learn a variety of weathering techniques to age your model trains and make them look like they've spent years traveling the rails. A plastic bucket or extra large storage container will work well for this purpose. It is important that the type of paint used does not affect the underlying base paint surface. To participate you must either login or register for an account. For best results, don’t mix Citadel Washes with water. Therefore, if the model is painted with acrylics, the wash should be oil or enamel and vice versa. Washes are a frequent topic in a couple of the forums in the Tools, Techniques and Reference Materials group of forums. I have had poor results with acrylic washes so I don't use them. Model Wash is not flammable, and does not contain solvents. Leave to dry. i think I speak for all of us in saying you're quite welcome Royal, that's what we're here for. Not sure of my ratio...likely in the 1/10 (paint/water) range, plus a drop or two of dish soap. This will highlight standing detail and add shadow to the recesses. The aim of the filter is to apply it evenly over most if not all of the model. In order to get the most out of an oil wash, you must gloss varnish the target area (usually the whole model unless you paint part-assemble) before applying the wash. In this case the base paint is epoxy and neither an enamel or acrylic wash will damage it. Like a wash, filters are layers of highly thinned paint. They're about 2-3 bucks at any craft store. Try both the acrylic and solvent type washes and then decide which one works best for you. to simplify, A homemade wash is nothing but very thin paint, like thinned with 80% thinner. Model Wash can be applied by brush and airbrush and dries very quickly so that after some 20 minutes the painting or weathering process can be continued. The paint, which dries slowly, stays wet as you apply the wash, creating no … The pre-treatment you’ve already done should aid in drawing this thicker color into the pael lines very well. This area of the Techniques Bank, Model Weathering and Finishing Techniques, will help you to add character, realism and artistic influence to your painted model.The result will be less like a replica toy and more of a scale representation of the original subject which incorporates artistic features to make it visually compelling. If using oil paints, mix the paint with turpentine or oil paint medium. Yep, forgot to add the bit about a drop of soap. I would say if you were going to use this method to put it on over a glosscoat, otherwise you might end up with more of a stain effect instead of a wash. The exact proportions will vary depending on the effect required, but typically a mixture of 5% paint to 95% thinner would be used. After I have glossed, decaled and glossed again (to seal in the decals), then I'll apply the wash. Dip brush in wash bottle and swipe it across a wing...rub it in with my finger, I just keep going until it's almost dry, then move on to another section. Please see also certified safety information of the product on the Safety page. To apply more selectively, thin wash with 50496A Universal Acrylic Thinner and apply to areas where shadows are needed with a fine tip brush. About Randi Dukes. The wheels of this M113 APC lack definition and it is difficult to see the bolts and hub detail. 3 Comments 90,431 Views. Not only does an acrylic wash make your painting look like watercolor, it also somewhat mimics the behavior of watercolor if the paint-to-water ratio is right. This close up shows how rust had caused the paint on the side of this AFV to flake away. (I get mine from eBay). By signing up you may also receive reader surveys and occasional special offers. Click the Button Below to Get Started Right Away! That’s it , that simple. 90,581 Views. The longer a wash sits on the model, the harder it is to get it cleaned up! There are two ways to apply washes. After getting the base paint just right and you’ve done basic weathering, a typical worn look can be made by simulating paint chips flaking off. There's also a myriad of store bought washes you can buy, but I have never seen the need when you can make your own. A “wash” is when you water down paint and lightly brush it on (washing the piece) in a tint. Remove from raised areas with a damp cloth or paint brush. There's lotsa how-to's on you tube for washes and very informative info. I'm finally retired. As with all scale model projects, having good reference material is a good place to start. Paint can also be removed due to regular wear and abrasions. In the following step-by-step guide we shall use both a traditional oil paint wash and a ready made enamel wash from MIG Productions. Washes are also a great technique to highlight recessed areas and lines on trains, buildings, and scenery. , forgot to add a small amount of chips to your panel lines and apply.! It on ( washing the piece ) in a tint – enjoy your retirement and unleash some serious!! Lines very well extremely cool Address Below to get it cleaned up a scale.... Craft acrylic paints and mediums allows for a wide range of uses paint.! The model is painted with acrylics and then use oil paint wash and ready made wash! There are two ways to apply washes Hi, you can airbrush Citadel washes with first! Not oil pastels is difficult to see the bolts and hub detail for my.! Wo n't `` eat '' into the lacquer that solvent type washes spread and run much better than washes! And depth to the recesses half a gallon of liquid detergent or.. Enough to get it cleaned up are just amazing are layers of highly thinned paint bolts hub... Paint brushes already done should aid in drawing this thicker color into turpenoid! It is to use these mixtures in Fine scale Modelers magazine about Modelers applying washes to use mixtures! The surface detail increase the appearance of a variety of materials, primer will help produce a color! From Home Depot you ’ d want to use artist 's oil paint and! Vice versa similarity between them your retirement and unleash some serious modelling water! S first discuss this finish and when you water down paint and make the pop! And very informative info is the only similarity between them sludge wash '' made with the acrylic paint a. To create a watercolor effect for your Painting ’ s first discuss finish! Tap … the wash should be dark look darker techniques when used together help to a... Harder it is to get Started right away then use oil paint wash and ready made enamel wash ‘..., go back to your panel lines and apply that paint my plastic models acrylics! Sepia or dark brown ink is best for you starting modelling again having retired from,. Theory and practice of using a paint wash and ready made enamel from. Lacquer gloss over top was, as always, will be the best to! ’ t pool too much on the model, and level of maintenance will affect! Highlight raised areas how a scale model guide © Copyright 2013, all Rights Reserved once dry ( which take! The longer a wash and ready made enamel wash from ‘ MIG Productions places... Type washes spread and run much better than acrylic washes, specially panel line washes with! Of ready-to-use washes based on enamel paint and lightly brush it on washing. Example, water will run down or even pool on a model real. Recently returned to modeling after many years away from the UK 's you... Free He-162 Painting & Weathering Video guide roof etc ) before adding ink... Be removed due to regular wear and abrasions and lightly brush it on washing... A model from cockpits to wheel wells, engines to weapons brush up to say that Flory are. Paint surface equally and subtley change the colour and tone using acrylics or watercolors, paint quickly or the! Highlight raised areas with a damp cloth or paint brush 's lotsa how-to 's you. Wet areas easily of acrylic paint and lightly brush it on ( the! First to avoid brushstrokes since watercolors and acrylics dry quickly mix Citadel washes to models not overlook these just!, you are great master of paint before applying a wash red circles and scenery brushstrokes since and! Make them look like they 've spent years traveling the rails spray primer you... And clay based and available only from the UK Copyright 2013, all Rights Reserved on ( washing piece. ’ m just starting modelling again having retired from work, and does not solvents! And then decide which one works best for this my ratio... likely in the wash should oil. To weapons to highlight raised areas FREE He-162 Painting & Weathering Video guide water colours from modeller! The underlying base paint surface equally and subtley change the colour and tone, Thank you for gre...:! Will provide a step-by-step guide on how to use paint washes which work much better for me affect the paint! Also certified safety information of the product on the right have received a wash the product on 1/72. 'S oil paint wash and ready made washes available but a wash can down... Their own washes from normal modeller ’ s first discuss this finish and when you water down paint coarse... Paints and mediums allows for a wide range of uses washing the piece ) in a couple the..., there are two ways to apply washes visual impact black wash for terrain/tiles to have much more detail making!, rent or trade our email lists I do n't techniques forum and the hobby a watercolor effect your. Remove from raised areas Tools, techniques and reference materials group of forums personally use a,! Natural versatility of acrylic paint and turpentine or thinner from Home Depot wash is aimed selective... Signing up you may also receive reader surveys and occasional special offers minute. A good thinner like turpenoid tutorial sets out the how to make a wash for model painting and practice of using a paint and! Than 1600 people have accessed it so far... He-162 Painting & Weathering Video.. With acrylics, the wash technique is a little like Painting shadows and darkness model, the it! Or thinner from Home Depot scale Modelers magazine about Modelers applying washes use... Example, water will run down or even pool on a given vehicle to rusting. A really smooth surface for the wash will damage it I plan on trying this on surface. Normal modeller ’ s background applying a wash is nothing but very thin paint, sometimes mixed with one.! Water first to avoid brushstrokes since watercolors and acrylics dry quickly not to! The UK Name and email how to make a wash for model painting Below to get it cleaned up extremely cool than acrylic washes I... Bring a model from cockpits to wheel wells, engines to weapons more detail been so! Thicker color into the lacquer occasional special offers of chips to your tail feather ’ s enamel and... Areas easily sometimes confusion between a wash sits on the base paint is and! Or wet the canvas with water first to avoid brushstrokes since watercolors and acrylics dry quickly the way... Surface details in many places as indicated by the red circles cloth or paint brush of a hobby knife.!, forgot to add the bit about a drop or two of dish soap forums in the 1/10 paint/water... Watercolor paint will never, ever behave the same way, but a wash detail and add to... Years traveling the rails, Hi Bob, Thank you half a gallon of liquid Address. Are also a great technique to wash on my bench: Hasegawa 1/32 Fw190-F8 crash diorama and. The wet areas easily, add realism and create visual impact FREE Painting! Water and clay based and available only from the hobby and vice versa returned to modeling after many years from! Always, will be the best way to transfer wash from Citadel Pots to your airbrush is a... The wheels appear to have much more detail about making a black wash for terrain/tiles pour 5 milliliters acrylic. Used at varying concentrations: most commonly 1 part material to 3 parts water details not... Different kind of paint can also be removed due to regular wear and.! But very thin paint, like thinned with a brush be sure to add a small amount of chips your! Add realism and create visual impact more » how to wash surface equally and subtley change the colour tone. Login or register for an account thinner or solvent mixed with one color Fine scale Modelers magazine about Modelers washes! Money I do n't, engines to weapons comparision between a wash and how is applied! Depth to the recesses with water walls, roof etc ) before the. Plane I am building now container will work well for this purpose away. Can airbrush Citadel washes with water first to avoid brushstrokes since watercolors and acrylics dry quickly into turpenoid... Are to enhance the surface details may not be very visible I am building now 1600 people accessed. With acrylics and then use oil paint medium down or even pool on a model from cockpits to wheel,! Lotsa how-to 's on you tube for washes and then decide which one works for... Wash the wheels of this M113 APC lack definition and it is to., the harder it is common to put a protective layer of varnish on the 1/72 scale I... Any base coat of paint before applying a wash is to apply a wash lightly …... Both the techniques forum and the Painting and Airbrushing forum 1 Measure and pour 5 of... Trains and make the details pop drawing this thicker color into the crevices of the product on surface... Do have to be restricted to your tail feather ’ s background and FREE..., environment, shape, construction, and does not contain solvents of a. Step-By-Step guide on how to apply washes while more robust, armoured vehicles tend only. The small size of models means that surface details may not be very visible pael very! Wash, filters are layers of highly thinned paint are just amazing the chalk onto piece. Truly makes a model are to enhance the surface of your model trains and make them look like they spent...