MEC 31562

In between laying cork, building benchwork, and fiddling with turnouts, I have begun to weather this Maine Central boxcar that has been sitting on my workbench for a while now.

My methods are fairly simple and easy to master. I joined the Rustbucket forum and have adopted many of the practices of the masters there.  I will walk through the initial weathering of this care step by step, explaining each phase.

Right out of the box the car looks as follows, like a toy, shiny and plastic. Our goal is to create a model that looks like a large hunk of metal. To take the shine out and create a surface for later applications, first spray a coat of Dullcote onto the model. This knocks away the shine and creates a nice "tooth" for our fades to grab on to.

The next step is fading the model. After removing the wheelsets and applying Dullcote, I create a wash of the color similar to the one I want to replicate on the final model. For this model I mixed a golden yellow, tan, and burnt umber. I then apply thin washes over the entire model, using a hairdryer to speed the drying process.  The end result is a finished product that looks sun-faded. Again, I seal the model in Dullcote.

Next, I begin initial coloring with powders. I use AIM Weathering powder and prefer Medium Earth and Dark Earth. I alternate between the two coloring in dirt on the lower portion of the model and also initial rusting around the door. Start light and work darker.

The next step is where the model goes to the next level.  Using prototype photos, burnt umber, and a sewing needle, I begin to paint the rust marks and patches.  This prototype didn't have much scratching and patches, but there is some visible on the door and on the door track. Using a needle in addition to a small brush gives a great look.

The next and final step for this initial weathering is to go in again with the powders and touch up the painted rust spots and add a secondary layer of grime to the model. Using smaller brushes, I continue to apply powders and rust  (and of course Dullcote) until I get the look I want.

This model is almost done.  In further posts I will cover weathering trucks, the sides, and a little graffiti painting. Hope you enjoyed!