There are many ways to create a work look on the 'metal' surfaces of your scale models. You could hand paint them or sponge them on, both of which take a bit of time to do correctly. In this tutorial, I'll demonstrate the easiest way to create a realistic worn look using a technique that many Military and Aviation modelers have used for a long, long time.

http://www.ghostofzeon.com/diy/detailing/hairspray_scratches.html

Thanks for the SBS Scott

Really great technique Scott, thanks for sharing it with us. I've got a M29C Weasel that I'm working on that will be a perfect candidate to test this on. Looks like this should be easy enough for even me to try!



Thanks again,
Jim
Large Scale Armory

Thanks Scott, I am going to try this, seems easy enough with Great results. Keep On Modeling, milvehfan

Great SBS. I've bookmarked it for future reference. Thanks!

Hi Scott,

Since a layer of hairspray remains under most of the paint, is there a danger that overlying paint coats will bubble, flake off, or peel away in time? I've seen so excellent paint jobs produced using this method but the longevity issue worries me.

-Doug

I am yet to see any issue with this. In general, adding a top clear coat will help seal it all together and prevent any lifting. Most lifting of paint is caused by moisture (water in this case when brushing the paint off) so if it is sealed with a clear coat, then all should be fine.