This technique involves applying a colored medium into recessed lines on a scale model’s surface to create visual separation between parts and enhance detail. For instance, a darker shade applied to the recesses of an aircraft model’s fuselage panels can mimic the shadows and depth found on a real aircraft.
This detailing method significantly improves realism, adding depth and visual interest to otherwise flat surfaces. It offers a simple yet effective way to visually break up large, monotonous areas and emphasize the model’s construction. Historically, this practice evolved from techniques used on real-world objects, such as the application of darker paints or washes to seams and joints for protective and aesthetic reasons. This practice translated into scale modeling as a way to enhance realism and craftsmanship.
