Pastels..

[Flyjunkie]

I've seen references to using Pastels for weathering, stains, dirt, exhaust, etc.. on Models. I've never used them for that purpose, but since i have 4 boxes loaded with them (from doing Art) I figured might as well use them on my Models..

I cannot locate any information on proper use and application of Pastels.just other folks mentioning they used Pastels.. Perchance anyone here have some helpful information on using Pastels on models??

I'd imagine that one wants to use the "dry/Chalk" type of pastels as opposed to the oil based Pastels.. but other then that i am at a lose on how I might incorporate Pastels into my models..

Thanks....


Dean ~~

[pepperman42]

Yup the chalk type are the ones to use. Grind the sticks on sandpaper and brush them on the model. They are a weathering process you want to use late in the project as they are easily removed. You can set them with a clear coat but that makes them darker. The pigment powders that are sold now, Mig for example, seem to grab the paint a bit better but they are still fragile. They will be fine for interior weathering.

Steve

[Des]

I could be wrong here but I remember reading that the pastels only work well on a matt/flat surface, apparently they don't work well on a gloss surface, please correct me if I am wrong.

Des.

[GAJouette]

  Des,
You're  correct my old friend the pastels work best on a matt surface .The matt surface has more of a bite for the pastels to grab on to. With a gloss surface there's not enough bite for the pastel to grap on to,so when sealed most if not all of the pastels will simply be blown away.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette

[pepperman42]

....forgot to mention that part didnt I? Another reason why its late in the process...the model is already matte coated.....

[Edo]

Hi all!
You are all right regarding 'dry' pastels.
However, I use oil based ones too.
I use them for dry brushing, here is how it works:
first you rub the pastel to a paper sheet in order to form a thick layer of solid colour
then you take an old paintbrush (I usually take a square tipped one with stiff bristles) and rub on the colour
lastly you dry brush your model

I tend to use mostly white and silver pastels, but also black, gray and brown have an use.
Silver is great to simulate metal shine on nuts or rivets for example

ideally you should use a different paintbrush for each colour, or you'll end up with a dirt brush and a dirt finish...
Give it a try!
Ciao
Edo

[GAJouette]

  Edo,
Thanks for the great tip my old friend. I've got give this a go.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette

[Flyjunkie]

Thanks for the replies... I've been "inspecting" my Pastel collection and i am set for any needs... I can even do an Lozenge pattern I want with the color selection i own in Pastels..

Thank you Edo for the advice on the Oil Base Pastel... I can see how it would work...


Thanks !!