consistency was like paint . Use a cosmetic sponge or a cot-
ton swab to apply the dark chalk. Use a stippling technique to
apply. Although it can’t be seen well in the photos, this leaves
textured chalk that looks like pitted rust [51].
For the trucks, I started by mixing light rust powder chalk and
darker rust powder chalk 50/50, and making it into an alco-
hol wash. I applied this wash to the trucks and wheels. After
it dried, I dry-brushed dark rust powder onto the wheels. This
same techniques was used for the couplers [53].
51. The dark spots on the roof were made with
powdered chalk mixed with flat acrylic clear coat. A
cosmetic sponge or cotton swab can be used to apply
the paint-like wash. I used a stippling (dabbing) motion
to apply these spots.
51
Extended-vision caboose - 21
To make the BN logo and the stenciling look faded, I applied a
white chalk stick directly to these, then used a stiff brush to drag
the chalk straight down the side of the car, not at an angle.
I applied flat clear coat to seal the weathering. The clear coat
prevents smudging from your fingers while handling the car.
This can be done with an airbrush or from a can. Chalk tends to
fade after a clear coat is applied.
Summary
Sitting back and looking at the finished caboose, I’m glad I
chose to build a small and basic garden railway. One of the
greatest parts about working on this caboose is that my two
52. The roof rust has been carried down the side near
the chimney.
52
MRH-Nov 2014
