[ARM/Weathering] What exactly is Japanese Artist's Color

[Tony Matteliano]

Hi Gang:

I am looking for ways to make the weathering on my AFV models more
realistic. While cruising thru several different magazines over the past
year or so I am constantly drawn to the tank models in Armour Modelling
Magazine. Although it it 99% Japanese, I still find much useful
information in this magazine. In my opinion the Japanese modelers seem
to have the most realistic finishes I have ever seen. There is an
excellent article in the back of each issue called "Perfect Panzer
Finishing Techniques" by Makoto Takaishi. Along with pastel chalks,
Makoto uses a powdery substance refered to as Japanese Artist's Color.
What exactly is this stuff - I assume it is more than just chalk - Is it
acryllic pigment? Where can I get it? Does anyone else agree with me
that the models in this magazine are some of the best models you have
ever seen? I wish this magazine was in English - I'm hooked on it!!

Tony Matteliano

[TanqueMan]

I have to agree Tony. The aged paint and rust techniques are very realistic.
I wish I read Japanese.

[TRrmin8r]

Tony,

I'm not sure, but from what I can see, these are nothing more than artist's
pastel sticks ground down to a powder. The only difference from the
traditional application that I can see is that it is applied using acrylic
thinner as a fixative (I think they were using Tamiya thinner). And yes, I'm
forced to agree that the Japanese modelers, in general, are years ahead of the
West in weathering armor models. Most of the tanks I've seen in Armour
Modelling magazine are absolutely stunning (probably the reason that I've been
bitten by the aromr bug again is because of this magazine).
Steve Filak Sr.=RLWDH
Temple Northeast (Of the Umpteenth Order)
Member- Hudson Valley Historical Miniatures Guild
Check out Internet Modeler Magazine at:
http://www.avsim.com/mike/awn