Weathering Gunpla can be a fun and rewarding process for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started :
1. Gather Supplies :
– Matte or flat topcoat
– Weathering pigments or pastels (earth tones)
– Brushes (smaller sizes for detail work)
– Cotton swabs and soft cloths
– Optional: enamel washes or acrylic paints
2. Prepare Your Gunpla :
– Assemble your Gunpla model completely.
– Ensure all parts are clean and free from dust or oils.
3. Apply a Matte Topcoat :
– Spray a thin layer of matte topcoat over the entire model.
– This helps create a surface that grips weathering materials better.
4. Apply Weathering Effects :
– Dry Brushing : Use a dry brush with a small amount of weathering pigment or pastel. Lightly brush over edges and raised areas to simulate wear.
– Washes : Apply enamel washes or thinned acrylic paints into panel lines and recessed areas. Wipe away excess with a cotton swab.
– Sponging : Dip a sponge in weathering pigments and lightly dab onto areas where wear and tear would naturally occur.
– Chipping Effects : Use a fine brush or toothpick to add small paint chips and scratches, especially on edges and corners.
5. Blend and Adjust :
– Use soft brushes or cotton swabs to blend and soften any harsh lines or excess weathering effects.
– Adjust the intensity of weathering as desired by adding more layers or blending further.
6. Final Touches :
– Seal your weathering with another layer of matte topcoat to protect the finish.
– Optionally, add final details like decals or additional weathering effects to enhance realism.
7. Practice and Experiment :
– Weathering is an art that improves with practice. Experiment with different techniques and combinations of materials to achieve desired effects.
By following these steps, you can achieve realistic weathering effects on your Gunpla models, adding depth and character to your builds.