If you're making Star Wars prop replicas, you'll need to utilize weathering techniques to make them look used. It takes a lot more work to make something look old than it does to make something look new. This effect can be stunning if done properly.

Begin by lightly sanding and priming the prop. Then, paint two to three layers of silver paint. After the silver dries, mask off the areas you want to be weathered with either masking tape or "Liquid Mask". The name Liquid Mask is simply a name - nothing else. You may find the same thing at a local hobby shop but with a different name.

Liquid Mask is a liquid that gets brushed on the prop. After it dries, you can paint your regular color on top of it.

When the top layers of paint dries, peel off the masking material reveal the silver underneath. Instant weathering!

Warning!! If you use Liquid Mask with enamel paints, you MUST let the mask and the paint cure completely. If you get in a hurry and paint on top of the mask before either one is totally dry, you will have problems removing the mask.