Model master Acrylics for post shading work

[ulvdemon]

Everyone, I am working on a model that I am going to attempt post shading. Now as I understand it, pastels and oils are best used for post shading, but can acrylics be used? Ecspecially after the model is sealed?

[Joseph Osborn]

Airbushed acrylic post-shading or applied with a brush? Pastels and oils are generally used because they are easy to remove or blend away on a sealed surface. Acrylics usually don't have that quality for brush or sponge application-- they tend to dry too quickly. But if you're airbrushing the post-shading with acrylics, you can thin them down and build up the color with a fine degree of control.

[ulvdemon]

Was thinking of brushing, but if using an airbrush is the only way, then I will have to look into getting some oils or pasatels then since I am thinking of using a brush.

[Mr. Badwrench]

The use of oils, pastels, and other pigments isn't really postshading. They are most commonly used for various weathering applications, although they can be used to modulate the color, as you suggest. What you are describing, applying acrylics with a brush to tint the model, is drybrushing. Drybrushing works very well with acrylics, as they allow you to just hit the highlights without making a big mess. Both methods work best together though. An oil wash to deepen the shadows and recessed areas, and drybrushing to accent the raised areas.

For what it's worth, postshading is (usually) an airbrush technique. After applying the base color, you lighten or darken the base by adding a drop or two of darker or lighter paint. Then gently fade this in at the center of panels, along the tops of wings or fuselage, etc.

[ulvdemon]

Misstep on my part, meant weathering and not post shading. thank you for the correction.

[Kylwell]

Acrylics can be used for some weathering methods but it depends on the acrylics, what they're thinned with and what they're going on top of.