Supercrud

Since the WR&N IV was set in modern times (not quite the present, but some fluid period between the 70s and 90s), one would naturally expect to see a lot of rusty old derelicts lying around. Maybe I'm a little warped, but I have a peculiar fascination with rusty old derelicts, and sought to model them as realistically as possible.

Actually, realism is relative, and I found that, on occasion, "overdoing" an effect had a way of heightening realism. I discovered this after unintentionally dumping some powdered dye on a model while the paint was still wet. Thus began my new technique, Supercrud!

Ultimately I found that the most effective recipe was a combination of a product called Rustall and ground pastel chalks (available from any art supply store, although Micro-Mark has special sets just for weathering). Depending on how badly deteriorated I wanted something to appear, I'd either brush on a liberal coat of Rustall, or I'd dunk the whole model into the liquid, then start applying powders. Sometimes I would repeat the whole procedure two or three times to build up the level of crud I desired.

To create ground pastel chalks, I simply hold a chalk stick over the model and scrape it with a modeler's knife. A number of various effects can be created by smearing and streaking the resulting glop with a brush while the Rustall is still wet. For more subtle rusting effects, I might forego the Rustall and simply sprinkle on the chalk dust while the model's finish coat of paint is still wet.

When the model is completely dry, I dust off any loose material with a soft brush. Sometimes I will spray on Testors Dullcote to protect the finish, but care must be taken as the Dullcote occasionally reacts with the Rustall to produce some pale grayish stains; however, this is not always an undesirable effect!

The Supercrud technique is obviously not limited to use on ancient rolling stock; it is just as appropriate and effective applied to any old metal objects, such as the barn roof to the left, or the relay boxes at right and below.

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