AK interactive, perhaps the leaders in weathering products, bring us a 128-page "complete guide with all techniques and detailed step by step". The book is heavy because of the thick, glossy pages with crystal clear photography. It's so bright and inviting!
Composition
This book is a composition of works from 6 different modelers, and I must say, each with excellent weathering techniques. They are Chuck Doan, Doozy Okugawa, Marc Reusser, Per Olav, Scratchmod, and Virgil Suarez. Also credited are Fernando Vallejo for the Original Idea, Mig Jimenez as the Art Director, Carlos Cuesta as the Development and Project Manager, and others (see Table of Contents photo).
There is much to learn here, and it's presented very clearly, with an abundance of photos to explain each step in their process and to show how each effect looks at the completion of the project.
Although this is an AK interactive publication, they show us the use of a wide variety of weathering and finishing products from many manufacturers besides AK interactive, such as Tamiya, Vallejo, Mr.Hobby, Lifecolor, Humbrol, and Floquil, so it's not just a 128-page advertisement.
I did notice some typographical errors (on the inside cover they give "Sepcial Thanks"), and as you can see from the scan of page 100-101 attached, sometimes the captions didn't match with the photos. While that can be distracting, the lesson is clear enough to follow in all cases. The team is mainly non-English-speaking, as evidenced by the inclusion of an "English Language Editor" in the credits.
SUMMARY
Highs: Beautiful, clear, detailed photos of world-champion modeling work. The fantastic step-by-step processes are broken down simply enough for any reader to follow.Lows: Some instances of poor proof-reading, but let's say that's due to their enthusiasm to get this out to the general modeling audience. (Likewise if you find errors in my own review here.)Verdict: This book is a trove of good information that I know I will be referring to for years to come. I recommend you keep a copy handy as well.
Our Thanks to AK Interactive USA! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
About Sean Hadfield (windysean) FROM: WISCONSIN, UNITED STATES
I picked up model building and HO-scale model trains from my father. I've been working at it now for more than 45 years, always learning more. Although a self-proclaimed cheapskate, I always modify or add to my builds to make them unique and special (for better or worse, ha ha).
I already have seen the pictures of the Fordson a thousand times I think. Other artist in this book don't ring a bell to me, yet.
Know Mr. Doan via photo site of Mario Rapinet. That also inspired me to modeling the way I'm doing right now.Very Interesting, it will be a long night I think.
Thanks for taking the time to do this review Sean.
Not long ago I bought a copy of AK's weathering magazine. Excellent magazine, but it had the same issue, as this book, with text and images not always matching. Anoying, but not so much it will keep me from buying the book.
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