2026 member project

Black Wash

Built by John DeRosia

Black Wash project photograph

The complete project

1 project chapter.

A 1:72 M-977 project demonstrating a simple black-wash method before final weathering and lights.

Technique article

Black Wash Technique

3 photographs · Project gallery
Black Wash project photograph 1 of 3
Black Wash project photograph 2 of 3
Black Wash project photograph 3 of 3

Photograph 1 of 3

Here is another recent project in 1/72nd scale I just completed.

Wanted to show you my “Black Wash” method.

The M-977 truck was all glued together about 99%. Hand painted, black tire paint, decals first—now paint my cheap craft-paint black wash all over it. No cracks left behind... LOL!

I just mixed cheap black hobby craft paint in a jar with a little water. You can make it as strong as you like. It is always ready for many more models. The black wash does not go bad.

After the black wash has dried, then it is time for weathering and lights. Estimate about two hours maximum from box to completion. The container is a scaled-down paper cut-out.