Would it be safe to compare weathering (of any type) on a model to applying make up - just a suggestion
regards
Mike
The wagons must clean up as per original, powders are one idea I have tried but they do need a coat of fixative on top to keep it looking OK constant handling will affect the finish, a friendHave you looked at weathering powders? I think even Humbrol make them now, or there are a number of US and Japanese manufacturers. They are widely used by military modellers and some railway modellers. Artists pastels can also be used, either draw on or file some off the stick to make powder. Some are more waxy than others so would stick better but take a bit more cleaning off if you need to.
They are limited editions which are very rare and don't come on the market that often so that idea is out of the window I'm afaid thanks anyway.If the wagons have to be returned to original state I would be inclined to source secondhand versions and weather these instead.
I model 1939-40 Devon/ Dorset there are not many RTR wagons around for this area they are Puffers Bachmann L/E models averaging out at £30-£35 each were ideal for the job I was originally going with Powsides kits but I suffer with Arthurightarse in the thumbs so it precludes doing lots of kit work these day.Purely a personal opinion, but I think brand new stock (with the odd ex-works item) spoil a layout as it never looks realistic. I know it is sometimes hard to `dirty` a nice clean model, but just keep them in a display cabinet in that case.