Chipping Fluids

What are Chipping Fluids and What are They Used For?

Chipping fluids are specialized products within the category of model-making chemicals that allow you to create incredibly realistic wear and paint chip effects on your models. If you dream of giving your vehicles, machinery, or diorama elements an authentic, "worn" look, these products are for you. With them, you can simulate damage to the paintwork resulting from normal operation, combat, or harsh weather conditions. They are a crucial element of "weathering" – the art of aging models – which significantly enhances their realism and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're building model tanks, airplanes, civilian vehicles, or figures for wargames, chipping fluids will help you achieve professional results.

How to Use Chipping Fluids and Why Are They Worth It?

The process of creating chipping effects with these fluids is simple and intuitive, even for beginner modelers. Apply the chipping fluid to a painted model, specifically over a base coat of paint (e.g., a metallic color or primer). After it dries, apply the topcoat – the paint you want to chip – over it. Once the final layer is dry, simply dampen the surface gently with water and, using a brush, toothpick, or sponge, carefully begin to remove the top paint layer. The chipping fluid activates the paint, causing it to subtly peel and chip away, revealing the base layer. This creates natural-looking scratches and paintwork imperfections. These fluids are available in various formulas, allowing you to control the degree and nature of the effect – from minor scuffs to deep chips. Choose the right fluid to give your models a unique character and authenticity that will capture the eye of any observer.