PewPreview Guides Distressed and worn finishes: the look of honest use
Distressed and worn finishes: the look of honest use
A distressed finish is made to look like years of wear. Done well it looks natural, and that takes a good eye.
How it is done
There are two usual ways. One is to spray a top color over a contrasting base and then take some of it back at the edges, so the base shows through. The other is to paint the wear on, using a mask or a fine hand to place it. Either way, the wear belongs where hands and cases would really rub: edges, corners and high points.
Why it costs more than it looks
It is usually at least two colors, plus the time spent placing the wear by hand. No two parts come out the same, which is a part of the appeal, and a reason to look at a shop's earlier work first.
What to ask a shop
- Can I see parts you have done in this style?
- Which colors will show as the base and as the top?
- Is the wear real removal of the top coat, or painted on?
- Does the part stay protected where the wear shows?
You can start from the Battle Worn pattern and change both colors in the studio.