Loco weathering - a beginner’s tale

[Steve M]

One thing I learnt yesterday was the importance of spraying at the right height and angle - standing at the workbench in the shed was not ideal. This afternoon I cleared an area that would pass as a painting area. It’s not without its drawbacks - the roof leaks for a start - and I need to get a small seat rather than sitting on a workshop vacuum cleaner. I might put a piece of white faced hardboard on the mdf as it should be easier to keep clean

[Steve M]

While perched on the vacuum cleaner I had another run at a static loco. This time using a mix of airbrush, ordinary paint brushes and weathering powders.

Definitely getting ‘lighter’ on the paint but overdid the powders on the top of the tanks - this one could even end up on the layout.

20181022_192912 by Steve Mumford, on Flickr

20181022_192933 by Steve Mumford, on Flickr

[Walkingthedog]

I hate to think what the results will be when you get the hang of it.

[brian1951]

Very good thread Steve, we need more like this. Try some blue paper on the MDF the type you buy on big rolls, it will keep the bench tidy. So far your attempts look fine to me. Fancy doing some of my BLs .

[Steve M]

Not sure I fancy devaluing a BL Brian.
Thanks WTD, not sure I'll truly 'master' it but I may beat it into submission.

It's amazing what you notice in photos though. The lime scale streaks on the cylinders are not vertical, but the ones on the side of the tanks are! And I must mask the windows.

I think tomorrow I may try a light 'pre-grouping' weathering rather than a BR heavy version.

[Postman Prat]

That's better

[Postman Prat]

That's better

[platelayer]

That is very good work Steve, you have a real magic touch there.

[RogerB]

Very good Steve - it seems that "less is more" is true then? R-

[Steve M]

Very good Steve - it seems that "less is more" is true then? R-

Very much the case Roger.
It surprised me how little you need to use. You have to be quite subtle to get the right effect - and subtlety has never been a strength for me.