I was so pleased with myself at creating my own decals for a sign, that I totally forgot about weathering. I had not really thought about it, but signs weather differently than rolling stock. I am thinking about airbrushing grimey black and dust. Any different thoughts?
In the link, about 1/3 of the way down is the inspiration for this sign and building, which no longer exist. Unforturnately, the pics aren’t of the best quality. Some interesting cars and engines in the yard, one of which became one of the Freedom Train locos.
I’ve had some sucess weathering cardstock and paper signs with Pan Pastels and or pigment powders, but a shot of Dullcote is usually necessary before and after.
Ed, Lookin’ good. Before sealing and depending on surface texture and pressure of application I’ve found that some amount of overzealousness can be reversed with the Pan Pastels using a damp make-up sponge, soft cloth or even a digit.
Thanks, Peter [Y] I printed several spare signs on various media so I have the luxury of playing around with other methods. I find a high gloss photo paper represents a porcelain sign very nicely.
Still, a coat of Testor’s dullcote should give it enough tooth to accept weathering powders. You may only need a dusting of very light gray to give the sign a bit of sun fade.
I’ve put decal signs on a number of rough surfaces, like brick walls or wood fences. The buildings have already been weathered, and putting the decals on gives them “instant weathering.” They look painted on years ago, the way I remember such signs from my childhood.
