In order to breathe more life and accuracy into your model, a 'wash' can be employed. If you look at photos of real aircraft (particularly military), they possess tell-tale areas which become dirty over time. Dirt often collects in, and streaks back from panel lines encouraged by the airflow, and this can be replicated with oil washes. Staining such as this can be highly visible on panels running back from engines (particularly underneath), where oil can leak. Once your model's decals have been sealed in with a gloss coat, the wash can be applied to all engraved panel lines. Mix some dark oil paint, such as Winsor & Newton Raw Umber with thinner to a 60/40 ratio. Then, using a small brush, apply the mix to the engraved lines. If it is thin enough, capillary action will help it flow along the lines. If a very dirty look is desired, then be liberal in your application, but be more frugal for a less-soiled look. Leave the wash to dry for around an hour. The next step is to gently remove the excess wash with a lint-free cloth, in the direction of the airflow. If more wash is to be removed but the cloth alone can't manage it, dip it in a little thinner. When the excess is removed, let the wash cure overnight and seal it with varnish. Of course, this method only works with engraved panel lines. If your model has raised lines you'll have to skip this technique. Once more modelling experience is gained, you may wish to attempt re-scribing which we'll cover in a future issue of AMW.
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