The Robots and Droids category is an online-gallery only. The lifesize artwork is not a commercially available product and should be viewed and enjoyed as artwork made by fans for fandom enjoyment. Robotics in the real-world is advancing by leaps & bounds and a look back in time at these creations, in my opinion, is fun and nostalgic. Have a look around and ENJOY!!

ASTROMECH PARTS WEATHERING TUTORIAL

This tutorial demonstrates a useful weathering technique that can be applied to any resin, plastic, or fiberglass parts. It creates that multi-layered 'used' look that promotes more realism to the art of props.

I usually start by giving the entire piece a wash of watered down acrylic. This mixture can be ANY color you can imagine, but for this application, medium brown works best.

Before you begin any weathering, be sure to define any panel lines using either graphite pencils or wax pencils.

When you are finished highlighting the panel lines, give everything a good coat of clearcoat for protection.

Let the paint dry on the surface for about 5 minutes before wiping it off with a rag. Your result will look like this:

Now, go with a second wash of acrylic, this time use a much darker color. You can apply it with a brush or, for large pieces like this, you can use a spaybottle (shown above). Let the paint set for a little bit then wipe it off with a rag. You can add as many layers of wash and colors as you need to achieve any kind of weathering patterns. Once you are happy with all your wash layers, you are free to apply any other color shades or oil drips/dirt build-up using a liner brush.

Finished Weathered leg!