For easy weathering on any type of model, dab a slightly moist small piece of very soft and porous foam (the kind found in pastel sets gets excellent results) in powdered pastel (perhaps ground up with sandpaper). Apply the color from the foam to the desired surface by lightly pressing. For smudges, use the piece of foam as you would a small paintbrush.

This technique works for anything: armor that has been dirtied up, aircraft that have been flying through the desert, and (this is extremely useful) aircraft carrier flight-deck details (stripes and the like) that have been messed up during takeoffs and landings. For this, use the color that you used for the flight deck to replicate worn markings.

Tip submitted by:
Jasper Cole-KinkWest Stockbridge, Massachusetts