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Basics of dry-brushing

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By Christopher Appoldt

Looking for that last bit of dimension and realism on your models? Try the dry-brushing technique. This technique brings out detail which might otherwise disappear on a model by highlighting the raised surfaces. It works by dipping a short, stiff brush in paint, then brushing off most of the paint and pigment from the bristles. Lightly dragging the brush over raised detail deposits a very small amount of the pigment, highlighting the raised sections only.

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March 2001

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The technique itself is not difficult but what can be confusing is choice of color when dry brushing. Initially, when I began modeling ages ago drybrushing to bring out detail was done with white paint. It certainly did the trick, but as trends took modeling towards ever greater realism white became a no-no.

These days I will use a variety of color but for solid colors, I often will use either a lighter or darker mix of the base color with tiny amounts of white or black to lighten/darken it respectively. With camo schemes I use an ultra thin black and apply it with brush strokes going toward where I establish the light source to be coming from so details emerge as shadows. Somtimes I will do it from both directions depending on the model and how difficult it is to accentuate the detail.

My own opinion is dry brushing on its own doesn't always do the job. I view it as part of an overall weathering plan that incorporates dry brushing, washes, powders, and other effects.

Submitted: 11/24/2011 4:30:39 AM (CST)