AFRICA KORPS WASH

AFRICA KORPS WASH — an Enamel Wash for Desert Equipment (AMMO of Mig Jimenez)

AFRICA KORPS WASH is a ready-to-use, pre-thinned wash on an enamel (synthetic, solvent-based) base in a 35 ml bottle. This is not a kit, but modeling chemistry for weathering finished models. The shade is deliberately tuned for the light desert colors of German Afrika Korps equipment and other vehicles in sand and sandy-yellow camouflage. It highlights rivets, panel seams, the areas around hatches and casting detail, while not muddying the light base into a cold gray, as a general-purpose black wash usually would. This is exactly its main benefit: contrast without losing the desert character of the color.

Use

• Stir the bottle thoroughly before every use — the pigment component settles to the bottom.
• Apply it precisely with a thin brush into details: seams, rivets, panel lines, shadows under fittings and around hatches.
• Let it flash off briefly and wipe off the excess with a clean brush or a cloth lightly dampened in enamel (synthetic) thinner.
• Wipe in strokes from top to bottom, following the direction water and grime would naturally run down the vehicle.
• Build up the intensity with several light coats — one heavy coat looks unnatural.

Recommended base

Apply it over a cured gloss or semi-gloss varnish. A smooth surface lets you wipe off the excess cleanly, and the wash stays only where it belongs — in recesses and details. On a matte surface, the wash soaks in and even wiping is almost impossible. Once the weathering is finished, apply a matte varnish over the model. An enamel wash does not attack a fully cured acrylic varnish, but a test on a hidden area is still recommended.

Who it is for

For modelers of North African campaign military equipment, and equipment in light desert shades generally — tanks, armored personnel carriers, trucks and dioramas. Suitable for beginners (mistakes can be wiped off with thinner) and as a first layer of multi-stage weathering for advanced modelers.

Solvent-based modeling chemistry — flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area, protect your skin and airways, and avoid contact with the eyes. Keep out of the reach of children and away from fire sources and open flame.