ZSU-23-4V1 Shilka

[Gigatron]

Hey guys,

This is the 1/35 Dragon kit and has been on the bench for a while. This build represents a lot of firsts; hard-edged camo, dot filters and multi-layer washes.

This particular Shilka is in the 3 color camo of the Egyptian army during the October 1973 war. I chose this scheme because the other 3 options were more green and I already have a few green AFVs :cool

As always, constructive criticisms are welcome.

Enjoy.

-Fred

 

[RickDTM]

Very nicely done Fred. How did you like doing the dot filters?

 

[Gigatron]

Thanks, Rick :cool

At first, I hated doing them - nothing turned out right. The turpenoid was eathing through all my paints and turning the oil into a mud wash, more than anything else.

But then I found out I was using the wrong kind of turpenoid. The stuff I was using had an added brush conditioner. It was honey colored and kind of syrupy. Turns out the stuff I should have been using, should have had the clarity and consistency of water. I forget the brand name, but it comes in a white bottle with blue lettering. Michaels carries it in the art department, next to the oil paints.

Anyway, after a little experimenting with the technique, I really kind of like the effect it adds. It definitely adds tonal variations that are very, very subtle. At first, you won't even notice it - until you compare it to an area you haven't done yet. Then you're like :cool.

-Fred

 

[RickDTM]

Awesome! Thanx for the info. I've been wanting to try this tech for a while now, and you've given me the push I needed.

Did you seal the paint underneath before you started using the turpenoid of just went for it?

 

[Gigatron]

Nope, no sealing, whatsoever. The underlying paint is a mix of both acrylic and enamels and neither were affected by the turpenoid. Of course, I let them cure for over a week, so maybe that had something to do with it.

What I did, was pre-wet the area with the turpenoid, then apply the dots, then blend them in with a turpenoid dampened brush. I think the pre-wetting helps the colors flow better.

Good luck with your endeavor - it definitely adds a new dimension to weathering.

-Fred