My Favorite two basic methods are washes and dry-brushing. Both methods using acrylic paints, either specific model paints like Vallejo or general art paints that come in the squeeze bottles.

1) Wash method: pour a blob of paint onto a palette (piece of cardboard etc) and thin it with water. With a brush apply it to the model and spread around. As it dries you can scrub it off to your taste. This method works good for highlighting recessed details and edges.

2) Dry brush: Get paint on your brush then with a paper towel or rag wipe it off until there is very little left on the brush. Now lightly brush areas on the model you want to highlight. This method works good for raised details and edges. It’s a good way to add wear to areas where the crew would cause dirt and damage to the vehicle such as hatches, steps etc. 

  If you’re not sure be subtle to begin with. You can always add more. When you’re done you can clear coat the model (flat or matte clear for most military models) to help lock in the look you have achieved, otherwise it will gradually wear away with use and handling. 

Of course there are tons more advanced tricks but with these two simple methods you can very quickly make a stock sort of toy like model look much more realistic and scale.

Jason

Jason, thanks for the tips on making my tank look weathered. Can’t wait to try is and show it off

Looking forward to see what everyone has done.  The tank event is a blast and I hope to see lots of people