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Weathering Calculator — Product Quantities
Plan weathering product quantities for washes, pigments, oil paints and streaking effects.
Thinned enamel or oil wash that flows into panel lines and recesses (~0.008 ml/cm²)
Powder dust, mud and earth deposits brushed or fixed onto surfaces (~0.003 g/cm²)
Oil dots and filters that blend tonal variation across panels (~0.004 ml/cm²)
Rain marks, grime runs and vertical streaking down surfaces (~0.005 ml/cm²)
How We Calculate This
Each weathering technique uses a small amount of product per unit area: quantity = surface area (cm²) × consumption rate. Washes need about 0.008 ml/cm², pigments about 0.003 g/cm², oils about 0.004 ml/cm² and streaking products about 0.005 ml/cm². These are typical hobbyist consumption estimates from bench experience, not manufacturer figures — actual use varies widely with how heavily you weather. As a sense-check, a 35 ml AK Interactive enamel wash jar holds enough for roughly 20–30 average 1:72 models at this rate, which matches the rule of thumb that one bottle weathers dozens of small kits. Adjust the rates in advanced options for heavier or lighter effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
A common order is: 1) Panel line wash, 2) Filters (diluted oil paint), 3) Dot filter, 4) Streaking and rain marks, 5) Chipping, 6) Pigments and dust. Each step should be sealed with a protective coat if using different chemistry for the next step.
Very little. A single 35ml bottle of wash or streaking product can weather dozens of 1:72 models. Pigments come in 30-50ml jars and last even longer. Buy individual products rather than sets to start.
Yes — enamel washes and oil paints work well over cured acrylic paint. Apply a satin or gloss acrylic coat first, then apply enamel-based weathering products. The different chemistry means you can wipe away mistakes with enamel thinner without damaging the acrylic base.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.