Winter Camouflage Question

[TonyD]

I would like to apply a winter camo finish to a Pz IV model simulating the "whitewash" that was used in the field. In a search I found a method where hairspray is applied over the base color (in my case Panzer Gray), then apply white acrylic paint. When dry, scrub the paint with diluted windex.

Then I came across an article where someone used a Tamiya 'Snow' weathering stick. When I went to find this product I could only find it on eBay (for $10 each!); it seems to be discontinued.

So my questions are:

Is the hairspray method the way to go (I'm sure it will take practice on some scrap plastic), or is there another technique?

Should I splurge for the weathering stick or is there another similar product available (again, I'm sure I'll need to practice)?

Thank you

[ShutterAce]

I personally like the hairspray method for white wash. In my opinion it is the only technique that pulls off the look of worn whitewash effectively. 

What paint are you using for the Panzer Grey and the White? What I used on this Hetzer was Tamiya Acrylics. It won't work with an enamel white. The water needs to be able to penetrate the white paint layer.
 

 

https://youtu.be/uJ8sAQayTFY?t=504

 

[TonyD]

Thanks Jim! Yes, I am planning to use Tamiya acrylics.

So do I use a fairly stiff brush to scrub with? Perhaps cut the bristles back to make them stiffer? 

Should I work the paint before it completely dries or does it not matter? 

Is there a preferred type or make of hairspray to use?

[TonyD]

Sorry, just noticed that you provided a link to your video.

Still have a question on the hair spray; you say you applied the "hairspray through the airbrush"?

Beautiful model by the way, out of my league!

[ShutterAce]

7 hours ago, TonyD said:

So do I use a fairly stiff brush to scrub with? Perhaps cut the bristles back to make them stiffer? 

Should I work the paint before it completely dries or does it not matter? 

Is there a preferred type or make of hairspray to use?

1. I usually use a soft toohbrush for large areas and a small stiff paint brush to get around the delicate details.
2.  Let it dry. Otherwise it will turn into a soup.
3. I have used different kinds. Whatever is available and cheap. I always get the max hold though. I'm not sure if that matters but I don't want it releasing to easily.

2 hours ago, TonyD said:

Sorry, just noticed that you provided a link to your video.

Still have a question on the hair spray; you say you applied the "hairspray through the airbrush"?

Beautiful model by the way, out of my league!

1. No worries. I hate typing so I do videos rather than blog. LOL
2. What I currently have comes in a pump spray bottle and the droplets were huge. I have used aerosol cans in the past. However, the airbrush does appear to give a smoother application. You need to treat it as a paint layer because what doesn't get removed will always be there under the paint.
3. Thank you. You can do it. It just takes time to develop the skills. There is no magic involved.

[TonyD]

Thanks again, Jim. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge.