AK Interactive

What is weathering and why is it important?

Weathering, the technique of aging models, is one of the most fascinating stages of model making, allowing you to give your models a realistic appearance. Every vehicle, building, or aircraft is affected by weather conditions and operational use over time. Traces of rust, dust, mud, rain streaks, or paint chips appear on its surface. The purpose of the products in this category is to faithfully replicate these effects. Thanks to AK Interactive's weathering products, even a simple model gains depth and a story, transforming from a mere plastic toy into a miniature replica of a real object. Whether you're building a tank from the Eastern Front or a civilian car, proper weathering is the key to achieving a spectacular final result.

Weathering Products from AK Interactive

AK Interactive is a brand renowned for its high-quality modeling chemicals, and its range of weathering products is incredibly extensive. In this category, you'll find everything you need for realistic model aging. The main product groups include: washes for emphasizing details and creating shadows in recesses; powdered pigments to imitate dust, dried mud, or rust; ready-to-use streaking products for creating realistic streaks; chipping fluids for achieving a peeling paint effect; and thick pastes and paints to simulate mud and dirt. All these products are formulated to be easy to use, ensuring consistent and predictable results. They can be combined to create complex and multi-layered effects of wear and tear.

How to Get Started with Model Weathering

If you're just starting out, weathering might seem complicated, but with AK Interactive products, it's easier than you think. A great starting point is using a ready-made wash, like a dark brown one, which will instantly accentuate panel lines and construction details upon application. The next step could be experimenting with dry pigments to create dusty effects on wheels and the undercarriage. Many products are ready to use straight from the bottle and require no complex preparation. Remember, the key is moderation and studying reference photos of real objects. Start with subtle effects and gradually build up layers, and you'll quickly see how rewarding it is to bring your models to life.