Whenever working with smooth styrene — whether it is an armor model or a wall representing a concrete abutment — I will distress it before painting. Using a motor tool and a tiny round-headed bit, I make small nicks and gouges so the surface looks damaged or old.
On an armor project, this can be the appearance of battle damage or a poor metal casting. On items representing concrete, it will appear as bug-holes (air pockets) created during the pouring process, or popped/chipped areas from ice or rusting steel reinforcing bars.
Tip submitted by:
Darrell MenzerSheboygan, Wisconsin