Sometimes you want to accentuate panel lines or details on a model that has a smooth surface. Washes can get messy on smooth surfaces, but there is a way to avoid this. Pin washing is a method of getting wash into detailed and small places.
When Should You Use a Pin Wash
Pin washing is a technique that is used to create shadows on smooth surfaces with fine details. This is often done on areas like the panels of an AT-M6, or the seams on an automobile, airplane, or tank model. It makes these areas look more realistic by adding shadows that would be difficult to paint by hand.
The flat surfaces in these photos look the same before and after I applied the wash, but you can see the details in the recesses more clearly after I applied it.
Steps to Pin Washing
- Paint your model to the point that you want to add the pin wash
- Spray your model with a high gloss sealant
- Apply your wash to the area of detail
- Remove the excess wash
- Seal your pin wash
- Move on to the next stage of your project
Paint Your Model
You don’t need to paint your models in a different way than you usually would before you pin wash them. Pin washing works best on mostly flat or smooth surfaces, so you won’t need to put too many highlights and shadows in place.
Gloss coat your model
The gloss coat is what makes the pin wash work. A good, smooth gloss coat makes it harder for the wash to stick to the model. This means it’s easier to remove the wash without taking off the paint below it.
I have been using Alclad Gloss Klear Kote for my gloss coat layer. I think it is the best product I have tried so far. The only downside is that it has a strong odor. You need to use it in a ventilated area. I open my windows when I use it.
I am currently looking for a good solution that doesn’t smell as bad.
Making sure your model is covered in gloss coat is very important. If you don’t do it well, the paint might not stick to the model correctly. I like to apply two coats just to make sure everything is covered.
Make sure the gloss coat dries and hardens well. I usually wait overnight for it to be completely dry. If the layer is still soft, then the process of removing the wash might damage the gloss layer, making it less effective.
Apply Wash to the Detail areas of Your Model you Want to Create Shadows
Different types of washes can be used for this process, but I prefer acrylic washes. I usually just use Citadel washes, which are very popular.
There are two ways to apply the wash to your model. You can do it in a neat way or a sloppy way. Both have advantages and disadvantages. I usually choose the method that will work best for the situation.
If you are only doing a small part or a few parts, I would be careful when applying the wash. Use a fine-tipped brush to slowly flow the wash into the crevices. Try not to get it outside of the area you want it to be. This will take more time on the front end, but it will save time on the next step.
If your model has a lot of detail on it, like this AT-M6, it is better to just apply the wash to the entire surface. You will spend more time taking the excess off, but in the long run that will take less time than trying to be very neat when applying the wash to a busy surface.
Remove Excess Wash
Apply your wash. Let it dry a little bit. If you did a good job with the gloss coat, you will have some time to work before it becomes completely dry.
Take a Q-Tip and dip it into water. Gently move it back and forth over the surface where you have excess wash that you want to remove. The water will get between the gloss coat and the acrylic wash and cause it to loosen. The Q-Tip will remove it from your model with a little persistence.
In order to remove wash from the desired areas without removing it from other areas, you need to go over the detailed area perpendicular to the detail you want to remain. If you go parallel with the desired detail, instead of perpendicular, it will be harder to get rid of the wash without taking it away from the areas you want shaded.
I have tried other products to clean my house, but I think that water works just as well or better.
Seal Your Model after the Pin Wash
A pin wash is not the final step in your paint job. Most of the time you will want to move on to other weathering techniques, or at least knock down the gloss finish, nobody wants a shiny tank. It is a good idea to seal this layer before moving on.
If you don’t want to use gloss, you don’t have to. I usually switch to a flat finish at this point so that the next steps will adhere better. Alclad also makes a good flat finish that I like. It is also a lacquer, so take appropriate precautions. If you are in the UK, you can check Element Games here to see their prices.
FAQs
What is pin wash in Modelling?
Pin wash is a technique used in modelling to create shadows and highlights on a model’s surface. It involves using a thinned paint mixture which is applied with a brush to the raised areas of the model, and then wiped away quickly with another brush dampened with thinner, leaving the paint in the recessed areas.
How do models apply to wash?
Many models apply washes by dipping the tips of their bristles into the wash, and then tapping them against a palette or other surface to remove most of the liquid. They then load their brush with paint and apply it to the model in a light sweeping motion.
How do you clean Warhammer models?
Warhammer models can be cleaned with soap and water. First, use a soft brush to remove any dirt or dust from the model. Then, wet your fingers and rub them over the surface of the model until it’s covered in suds. Rinse off the soap under running water, and then pat the model dry with a towel.
How do you oil wash a Model?
Oil washing is a painting technique that can be used to add depth and variation to a model’s colours. It involves mixing some paint with an oil such as linseed oil, and then rubbing it into the model’s surface. The paint will gradually fade away, leaving the original colour behind but with a slightly darker hue.