Real trains spend years out in the elements and many show the signs of this long and hard service life. Weathering can take many forms; rust, grime, patched and peeling paint, and faded letters. There are almost as many ways to recreate the ravages of time and nature. Weathering a pristine model can be intimidating, but it is not impossible. With practice, you'll be adding years to your roster in no time.
The techniques described here can be used individually or combined to create an endless variety of weathering patterns. They will work on models in any scale and made of different materials.
It's always a good idea to practice new techniques on an old model or a scrap of plastic or wood prior to starting your first serious model. Good reference photographs of the prototype, whether it is the specific rail car or just the general look you're trying to capture, are the best tools to help your weathering achieve a realistic appearance.
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Weathering With Chalks
The Spruce / Ryan C Kunkle
This simple technique is great for beginners as the entire process can be easily reversed with a wet cloth.
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Drybrushing
The Spruce / Ryan C Kunkle
This simple technique uses a minimal amount of paint to create realistic streaks and scratches.
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Acrylic Wash
The Spruce / Ryan C Kunkle
A simple watercolor wash can tone down the paint and make the details pop. Washes are also a great technique to highlight recessed areas and lines on trains, buildings, and scenery.
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Fading Paint With an Airbrush
The Spruce / Ryan C Kunkle
You can make a car look like it's been out in the sun for a few years by weathering. This basic airbrush technique is an easy introduction to weathering with this important tool.
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Paint-Outs
©2011 Ryan C Kunkle, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Railroads often paint-out certain sections of a car as opposed to repainting the entire thing. These patches may be the result of new owners, maintenance, or just to counter excessive weathering.
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Weathering Decals
You can age your decals before putting them on a model. This creates faded signs and lettering.
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Weathering Diesels With an Airbrush
The Spruce / Ryan C Kunkle
An airbrush is the best tool for recreating the often subtle effects of weathering. Learn the basic steps with diesel locomotives.
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Weathering Structures
Jonathan Austin Daniels/Getty Images
Weathering isn't limited to just trains. To pull a scene together, everything should show the effects of time. These simple tips will help you add some age to your structures—even those you've already painted.