Editing Rail transport modelling (section)

== Weathering ==
''Weathering'' refers to making a model look used and exposed to weather by simulating dirt and wear on real vehicles, structures and equipment.  Most models come out of the box looking new, because unweathered finishes are easier to produce. Also, the wear a freight car or building undergoes depends not only on age but where it is used.  Rail cars in cities accumulate grime from building and automobile exhaust and [[graffiti]], while cars in deserts may be subjected to sandstorms which etch or strip paint.  A model that is weathered would not fit as many layouts as a pristine model which can be weathered by its purchaser.

There are many weather techniques that include, but are not limited to, painting (by either drybrushing or an [[airbrush]]), sanding, breaking, and even the use of chemicals to cause corrosion.  Some processes become very creative depending on the skill of the modeller.  For instance several steps may be taken to create a rusting effect to ensure not only proper colouring, but also proper texture and lustre.

Weathering purchased models is common, at the least, weathering aims to reduce the plastic-like finish of scale models.  The simulation of grime, rust, dirt, and wear adds realism. Some modellers simulate fuel stains on tanks, or corrosion on battery boxes. In some cases, evidence of accidents or repairs may be added, such as dents or freshly painted replacement parts, and weathered models can be nearly indistinguishable from their prototypes when photographed appropriately.