Sludge Wash Weathering Technique

Sludging is a method of painting models to appear weathered.

A sludge wash is a method of applying color in which the paint is diluted with a liquid such as water. It can be used on a wide variety of materials but is most often used to paint model planes, cars and trains. The dried appearance of the sludge wash creates a weathered look. A sludge wash can be made using almost any type of paint although acrylic based paints work best.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic cup
• Water
• Paint
• Liquid dish soap
• 1/8 inch paint brush
• Cloth
• Clear gloss paint

Instructions

1. Pour two parts of paint and five parts of water into a plastic cup and mix the contents thoroughly to combine. Check the mixture to ensure it has the consistency of coffee and add additional water or paint as needed.

2. Add two drops of liquid dish soap to the plastic cup and stir the mixture again thoroughly to combine.

3. Dip a 1/8 inch paint brush into the sludge mixture and drag the brush along the top of the plastic cup to remove excess and prevent drips.

4. Place the paint brush onto the desired surface and create long thin lines with the brush. If you are painting wood, simply drag the brush lengthwise along the board. You should also apply the sludge wash in crevices and seams of the model where two pieces meet.

5. Allow the wash to sit on the item and dry for approximately three to four minutes.

6. Fold a dry cloth into quarters and apply 1 tsp. of water. Lightly blot the surface of the object to remove the excess sludge wash. This will create a streaky appearance and soften the lines which will make the weatherization look more authentic.

7. Spray the entire model with a light coat of clear gloss paint to seal the sludge wash.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't like the appearance of the sludge wash, you can remove it with soap and water.

References

• Swannys Models: Weathering
• Fine Scale: Quick and Easy Weathering