Personally, I tend to start with light weathering—dusty trucks, a little roof grime, some faded decals—and then I either stop there or get brave and start layering in rust and streaks. It’s a fine line between “authentically grimy” and “accidentally overcooked.”
I almost always pull up prototype photos before I start. It’s amazing how different two similar cars can look depending on their use or region. Some look nearly pristine even after years in service, while others look like they’ve been through a warzone.
That said, there’s something really satisfying about a car that looks like it’s earned its keep. I’ve got a few “abandoned siding” pieces too—broken planks, peeling paint, heavy rust—and they add so much storytelling to the layout.
Curious to hear how others balance realism and aesthetics. Anyone else have that one weathering job they wish they could undo… or one that came out better than expected?
Some modelers love their locomotives covered in soot, grime, and rust like they’ve just survived a century on the mainline. Others prefer a more subtle touch—just a bit of dirt around the wheels and light fading on the paint.
I’ve found myself stuck between the two lately. I love the realism of heavy weathering, but sometimes I worry about going too far and ruining the look.
So what’s your personal style?
Do you research prototype photos first?
Do you prefer a clean fleet with just a hint of wear, or do you go full “abandoned siding” mode?
