When modeling the water surface of a waterline ship model, I have found a great (and inexpensive) way to achieve fairly realistic results. I start by painting my base a dark blue. Then I apply clear silicone caulk and spread it with plastic utensils. The caulk dries slowly, giving me time to form it, and it’s fairly forgiving. If I want to add bow or stern waves, I can paint the top white and it looks the part; adding patches of various blue shades lends contrast. Even better, after breaking the bank on the model, photoetched metal, paints, and so forth, a tube of caulk costs less than $10.
Tip submitted by:Michael GroothousenArnold, Maryland