By Jamie Haggo
In this technique article we’ll have a look at filters.
A filter is a blending coat which helps to bring together a paint scheme bringing depth and realism to a finish. There are many ways to do this using airbrush applied thin coats through to the technique I will describe. As ever, there are many commercial products available however I prefer to make my own using AK Interactive’s washes and weathering effects although oil paint would work just as well.
For this demonstration I have used Earth effects which is a greyish brown that should compliment the dark yellow paint scheme nicely. Take some thinner, in this case white spirit and mix in a small amount of the base product with a large soft brush. You should look for a translucent mix where the base tone is tinting the thinner. Now comes the complicated bit, slop it on! Well, it’s not quite as simple as that but almost. It’s important not to let the filter build up, especially in the recesses, that’s the job of the wash. This is to subtly tint the paint work so don’t flood the model, just make sure it dampens the paintwork. That’s all there is to it really.
Some hints and tips.
This method works best over a matt coat so I usually do it after the wash which works best on a gloss coat and use matt varnish. Also, I use different tones in different coats which I find works well. You can also use less coats on raised detail or different tones on different areas which will break up the model and this can be a nice effect.
Overall though it’s about experimenting finding what works for you.
Jamie H.