This tutorial shows the steps and tools needed to dry brush. I use an enamel based paint, but any paint type can be used, just be observant of the type of paint you are working over. The brush I use is a very stiff and old brush. An old brush is a good choice since the disarrayed bristles helps with the technique. With a small amount of paint, I get a sheet of paper ready. Dipping the brush into the paint, I immediately remove as much paint off the brush onto the paper as possible. I want very little paint on the brush, hence the term “dry brush”; as the brush is as dry as possible. Once I have removed most of the paint, I can run the brush against the kit.With most of the paint removed, only the edges and small detail areas will pick up paint, and the amount of paint picked up will be minimal. This technique is great for creating a weathered look; but like every weathering technique, moderation is key. Over dry brushing will just be the same as hand painting a part. Below are some pictures of the tools used, and an example of a dry brushed part verses the same part prior to dry brushing.
Below is a video showing the technique:
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Since I used an enamel based paint, clean up is similar to clean up for a wash. Taking a paper towel lightly dampened with enamel thinner, I can remove small amounts of paint where I over did the dry brushing. The following video shows this:
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Dry brushing is a very simple technique and will add a great amount of depth to your kit, but remember, moderation!
- Recap of the steps:
- Apply a small amount of paint to a stiff old brush
- Wipe most of the paint off on a sheet of paper or towel
- Brush the part where you want the weathered effects