What is meant by the term 'Pre-shading' and where would I typically use it?

Pre-shading is a technique used in scale modelling to create the illusion of depth and shadow on a model before applying the final paint layers. It involves painting the model with a darker shade of the final colour in the areas that would naturally be in shadow, such as recessed panel lines, corners, and edges. This creates a subtle contrast between the lighter and darker areas, giving the model a more realistic appearance.

Pre-shading can be used on various types of models, including aircraft, ships, tanks and cars. It is particularly effective on models with a lot of surface detail, as it helps to bring out the details and make them more visible. However, it is important to use pre-shading sparingly and not overdo it, as this can result in a model that looks too dark and unrealistic.

To achieve the best results with pre-shading, it is important to use thin layers of paint and to blend the colours together smoothly. This can be done using an airbrush or a paintbrush, depending on personal preference and the size of the model.

In summary, pre-shading is a technique used in scale modelling to create the illusion of depth and shadow on a model before applying the final paint layers. It is particularly effective on models with a lot of surface detail and can be highly effective at highlighting recessed details around panel lines. It should always be used sparingly to avoid an overly dark and unrealistic appearance.