Salt Weathering Effects Airbrush Stencils (Sparse)

Salt effect stencils for the airbrush, the Sparse variant (LIANG Model)

Universal masking stencils for an airbrush, which replace the classic salt technique. In that technique salt is sprinkled onto the model, sprayed over and then washed off, which is unpredictable and cannot be repeated. The stencil does the same thing in a controlled way: a broken-up, irregular pattern through which the lower layer shows, so that the impression of chipped paint, salt stains and a weathered surface arises. The variant marked Sparse works with a sparser layout of the motifs, so it suits a finer and less devastated surface.

How the stencils are used

The basis is a two-layer finish: first the lower shade that is meant to show through (rust, metal, an older coat), and the top color over it. Lay the stencil onto the surface, hold it down over its whole area and spray the top shade with thinned paint at low pressure, perpendicularly and in several light layers. The motif can be repeated, turned and overlapped, so that no rhythm giving the stencil away arises over a large area. Work in small sections and check the result as you go, because adding the effect is always possible while taking it away is hard.

Work tips

Corrosion looks most convincing where water stays and where the surface gets rubbed: around welds, lower edges, hatches and walkways. Keep the effect irregular and in the places where it makes sense. When you are done, unify the area with a thin filter or with pigment, so that the effect does not look stuck on. Clean the stencil while the paint is still fresh, choose the thinner according to the paint used and, with an unknown material, test it on the edge. Store it flat.

Who the set is for

• Builders of equipment and ships who do chipped paint and corrosion
• Modelers looking for a repeatable replacement for the salt technique
• Makers of dioramas with a long-parked or weathered machine
• Airbrush users across the scales

Paints, thinner and an airbrush are not included in the package. The stencil is meant for repeated use; the density and the number of motifs are not stated here.