Adding realistic tyre tracks to muddy terrain in your scale model can enhance the scene’s authenticity and tell a...
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How can I add realistic tyre tracks to muddy terrain?Read more -
How do I model a foggy scene on my railway?Read moreWhen modelling fog in a railway scene, you’ll want to create a convincing sense of mist rolling over the tracks,...
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The Dos and Don'ts of Lubricating Your Model TrainsRead moreKeeping your model trains running smoothly requires regular maintenance, and lubrication is a key part of that....
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What are waterslide transfers?Read moreWaterslide transfers are a key component of scale modelling, allowing you to add intricate markings, insignias and...
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What is the GWR Firefly Class?Read moreThe Firefly Class was a series of broad-gauge steam locomotives built for the Great Western Railway (GWR) between...
How can I model fuel or oil stains on track?
Oil spills and evidence of oil leaks are a common feature of many railway tracks around engine depots and at the end of station platforms where locomotives have been stood idling, but how is it modelled?
Choosing a paint to represent oil spills is easy as there are many purpose-made modelling paints available to achieve exactly that effect, AK Interactive's Fresh Engine Oil being just one. However, if you prefer to use paints that you already have lying around, consider whether you want your oil stains to look fresh. If you do, use a gloss paint, if you don't, a flatter finish would be more appropriate.
Paint aside, the real secret to realistic oil spills is the use of a caking agent first. This can be anything fine and powdery, with some modellers having experienced decent results using household talcum powder while others prefer to use a really fine ballast. Once you have decided upon a substance to use, it should be applied and set on top of your original ballast in the usual way using a PVA/water mix with a drop of washing up liquid added.
The effect that the caking agent closely replicates is the gunky and congealed consistency that a real oil slick would exhibit, but be careful to use it conservatively, you can always add more if required.
Posted in: Tracks
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