Can anyone tell me how to make the panel lines dark as seen on most model airplanes ? I f tried it several times but can't seem to get it right

Thanx in advance,
Marc

For me Marc, i like to use a oil wash. Thats assuming that you have engraved panel lines. You also can use any other paint thinned for your wash. There are a few articles here on this subject. If you have raised panel lines you can use a drafting pencil, the kind you drop the lead in.Sharpen on some sand paper and draw in the lines following the panels.

Hey Marc

I have seen a guy use his airbrush, to preeshade all panellines. I haven't tryed this myself, but this guy did a fantastic job.

I think there might be a videoclip, of this guy, on Testors homepage.

Hi Marc,

There are diferent methods to achieve this. If you check out the features section, in the aircraft category there's a great article by Holdfast. That method also works with enamels instead of oils.

Black Gold Washes


There is also one which uses the draughtsman's pencil.

Panel lines with pencil lead

Martins shading panel lines using a lead pencil is probably the easiest way to achieve this effect. Remember though, Marc, any technique requires practice. Read the different methods, in the features pages, if you have any questions the authers will be happy to answer them, either in the open forum or in a PM.
Pre-shading is actually used for a different purpose, although some modellers do use it instead of panel line washing. I also have an article on this subject, in the features pages
To pre-shade or not to pre- shade
I use pre-shading and washes as part of my weathering techniques.
Best of luck with your efforts.
Mal