Ladies and Gentlemen! With this post, we start a series of absolutely condensed, short “How to” style tutorials in the form of downloadable PDF files for all Modellers World patrons. Colorful, in an attractive and accessible form of single articles reminiscent of those from traditional modeling magazines, but without unnecessary talk – simple step-by-step recipes. You can download the files for your private collection to your Smartphone, Computer, or Tablet or even print them out. Collect them for the moment when you miss an idea or inspiration. Sheets will be created as additions to the updates from the work on the models, which are made for the YouTube channel Modellers World TV. PDFs have a separate category in the menu, so you’ll easily find your way around even after a long absence from the site.
Anyway, take a look for yourself:
Some words from me…
Of course, this doesn’t mean there won’t be any more commentary on my part or additional photos in these posts – what’s not.
The painting of the FT-17’s tracks was created experimentally. First, I planned to make them a bit rustier. On the other hand, the model will be presented in a rather dry environment, and brownish-rust tracks will not look very acute. I covered them with Weathering Paints’ series of all rust colors. I only wanted to lightly rub them with Dark Steel pigment, originally only to highlight the protruding rims of the gores. However, as I mentioned, the excess rust tarnish annoyed me. In addition, I applied all the paints with a sponge. Since they have a lot of pigment and strong surface tension, they create interesting textures and patterns like cast steel. Here, it should be recalled that the Meng track castings were very flat and “lifeless,” so the effect was interesting. The pigment further enhanced it. So I went all the way and rubbed it decently into the model of the tracks.
However, it was necessary to apply a wash to the tracks, exactly the same one I plan to use on the model: Earthy Grime. It would look strange if the tracks were not in the same dirt tone as the actual tank. The wash application further enhanced the textured effect of the steel. After all, adding another layer of pigment, this time already rubbed in more subtly and, of course, in only one longitudinal direction – opposite to the direction of travel, gave a beautiful and natural finish. I am very pleased with this effect. Unfortunately, capturing the exact shade with the camera is hard, which beautifully presents the impact of stylized steel.
