Weathering prebuilt structures

[jecorbett]

I'd like to know what techniques other modelers have used to weather pre-built structures, such as Walthers Built-ups line. I've never been a fan of these because I think that know matter how realistic the colors are molded in, unpainted plastic looks like just that, plastic. Many of these otherwise fine structures are no longer available in kit form and I don't have the skill or patience to repaint individual parts on a preassembled structure.

[Anonymous]

There are as many techniques for weathering as there are stars in the sky. I have used and like the following. Brick mortar to high-light bricks, chalks, diluted paint, and I have even put building out in the elements for extended periods of time (make sure to do it where the sun will not hit them), spray building and train cars with dull cote then mist them with alcohol, and even air brushing them.

Please look at my post Looking for similar interest with photos at some of my weathering, and please leave a reply.

I hope this helps. Good luck.

Lane

[Adelie]

I'm weathering a pre-built casket factory that was baby diaper yellow to start with. I started that with a wash of "Grime" to fade it to something more believable. That turned it more of a buff color before I was done. My plan is to next hit it with a wash of dark gray to give it some highlights and sink into the mortar lines (my guess is the mortar on this would have been gray). I'll finish it off with some chalk streaks.

The coat of grime improved it a lot by itself. If I were anywhere near home (sigh) I would post a picture of what it looks like after step one.

[SpaceMouse]

Here's a photo essay on what I do.

http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=47930