Simulating wear and tear on combat machines helps make convincing models. Chipped paint can be simulated by dry-brushing with metallic paints, marking with graphite and silver pencils, applying metallic powders, and chipping with sharp tools, but these methods can be time-consuming. Our fast, easy technique requires nothing more exotic than ordinary table salt. It all began when one of us, Michael, was making pretzels for his kids one evening. Reaching for the kosher salt, inspiration struck. Why not simulate paint flaking by masking a model with salt before applying the top coat? This led to several trial runs, all with convincing results. The salt technique has several advantages. Application is quick, and salt adheres almost as well to lightly moistened plastic as it does to egg-washed pretzels. The salt grains slightly disrupt the flow of paint sprayed at an angle, thus contributing variations in paint intensity and depth. (Modelers have used liquid masking substances and rubber cement to create a similar effect, but they lie relatively flat.) Salt can be applied evenly to replicate gentle wear or in an uneven pattern to simulate more aggressive natural chipping. When wiped from the surface and captured by a cloth, it also serves as a sandpaper-like abrasive to create additional wear and streaking on the paint.
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