I have noticed there is a bit of a debate raging on the Model Railroader forum concerning my rust-weathering techniques and I will try to answer the questions raised.
I can’t say that I have a specific ratio for the varnish/rust powder mix. I just mix it till it has a consistency of thick paint. How thick the mix is is not crucial as long as it dries up opaque.
The 3-D like effect is obtained by the powdered chalks. The varnish/powder mix don’t dry up totally flat like paint. It leaves a slightly textured surface.
Mr. Soeeberg, thank you for taking the time to explain in a little more detail. I appreciate that. I have ordered a copy of your book so I hope to dive into that soon and really get more of an understanding of how you achieve those wonderful effects. Keep up the great work.
You are the man! Thanks for the clarifying remarks on rust weathering, and thanks for your contributions to MR in recent years, and to the hobby in general. I always look forward to seeing more of your great work - truly inspirational!
I’ve been a fan of your work since your first cover story back in 1998 or so. I was pulled in by the “McDonald’s” that I’d first eaten at when I was 15 yrs old, passing through Mojave. I’m sure I passed through Mojave many times since I was as young as 5 or 6 years old, but didn’t realize it at the time. It was just a “place to drive through on the way to the Sierras”. You’ve since made it apparent that it’s also a magical place for railroading.
I am struggling with selecting a prototype for my upcoming layout. I’m soooo tempted to go with the California Desert, but I may go with the California Central Coast.
Your overall philosophy is just spot-on with my interests.
You mentioned in your most recent book that you’re “done” modeling Mojave. Do you have any plans for a future layout already?
