The Ultimate Guide to Armor Textures and Weld Beads on Scale Models

My friends, this video walks you through all techniques you'll need to make your scale models look heavier and more metal - adding rolled steel and cast metal textures, flame cut edges and weld beads. I've covered these methods in the past, but since then I found some new, more efficient methods, so consider this an updated version with all techniques in one video.
Patreon: / nightshiftmodeller
Instagram: / nightshiftscalemodeller
Watch the previous videos here
Armor Textures: • HOW TO: Armor Texture ...
Weld Beads: • HOW TO: Epoxy Weld Bea...
Cast Turrets on American Tanks: • HOW TO: Cast Steel Arm...
Enjoying this type of content? Well, if you're new here, then don't be shy to subscribe and maybe even turn on notifications because I keep posting stuff like this every week!
Disclaimer: Most of the weathering products I use in my videos such as Ammo by Mig Jimenez, AK-Interactive, Wilder and VMS were sent to me for free, but with no obligations to promote them. I received a lot of them a long time ago, even before I started this channel. VMS is also one of my Patreon supporters. Being independent from big and exclusive sponsorship deals and showing you a wide variety of different brands and products was one of the founding ideas of this channel and I will always stand by this.
Music: Quincas Moreira - Scratch the Itch - KZbin Audio Library

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

So I kept the intro 😁 Also, feels good to be back! Full build of this kitty coming next week!

[@FatCatGotHot]

I'm glad you did. I would have missed it.... somehow. It's cool!

[@kusanagi533d]

I like the intro its quick and lets me know i’m about the master at work... kind of like a school bell

[@dotdashdotdash]

Purrrrr 🐯🐯

[@ironspike171]

No one is watching your videos for your intro. Its nostalgic - and doesnt work in „good or bad“ cathegories. So just keep it, for the fanboys 😀 The very famous LGR (Lazy Game Review“ channel is 10 years up and Clint did slightly modify his intro - but youll see he kept its soul 😆 Oh btw - from the official statistics: 50% watch your videos because they are good and helpful, 30% because they are soothing, 15% because of the accent and only 5% because of the intro😁

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

@@ironspike171 Wouldn't want to lose those 5%!

[@MTMargraf]

Note to self: buy this same tank to build along uncle nightshift.

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

Not a bad idea at all, a bunch of folks are already building theirs 😁

[@Snonaniganz]

@@NightShiftScaleModels I have the Tamiya one, just waiting on. An RB metal Barrel, Friul or Masterclub tracks, The skill to build it, a full photo etch probably from ET model and the Skill to build it...

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

@@Snonaniganz lol, the Tamiya kit is actually gonna be much better than the Takom Blitz.

[@Snonaniganz]

@@NightShiftScaleModels Which is weird considering... Takom. Why do they make their plastic so soft and delicate though, most infuriating part of Takom kits tbf

[@tiger-zr7se]

ive done anyway from the tiger video

[@Skullringer09]

I'm happy he kept the intro. I was about to go full blitzkrieg if it was gone.

[@lawrenceofdeeznuts1573]

Finally but wheres the Part 2: Electric boogalo in the title

[@reedhw]

from hermitcraft? (tag2electricboogaloo?)

[@domino1323]

@@reedhw potential history reference

[@sebastiangiardina431]

@@domino1323 ‘Electric boogaloo’ is originally a reference to an old movie.

[@chlov]

@@reedhw hello

[@mistrimeat]

He went old school - The old "soften with liquid cement and tap" method. Thats how everyone was doing it 20+ years ago when I first got back into modeling. It's my favorite method.

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

True! Also "soften with cement and hit it with dremel tool", but that's a bit too brutal for my taste :)

[@jerryvolpini7987]

I don't know, still a lot of people using liquid cement to texture armour plate, I think 👍 I also use the dremel/motor tool or putty methods (or combine techniques like Martin), depending on the look I'm after.

[@MrNobody-bv4ec]

The c-shape welds for vertical is because when welding in that position you want to run up hill so your weld gets good burn in(penetrating and forming a strong bond). Then something horizontal you would run right to left, pushing the weld and for the same reason as vertical, you want to push that heat forward and really burn your weld in. If you drag it you tend to get lesser penetration and typically weaker welds.

[@codyparker679]

Recently we have been taught to stop a grave and go stringers only no matter how its done. Engineers proved weaves are weaker

[@helmutfeuerbach6492]

I am coming here from Warhammer 40k. Your clips are like a luxury gallery. Never again gonna just assemble and paint my Space Marines tanks :) You just made my hobby richer and more expensive 😆

[@lugenlord6721]

Regarding welding patterns you are absolutely right. If there is no more possibility or other reason to twist the part you are welding, it is actually done just as you described in the position it is in, thus needing the different techniques.

[@mkusanagi]

This guy knows flamecuts and weld beads

[@ryanschlotfeldt1070]

Have you ever considered doing some of these super realistic techniques on a model from the Warhammer 40k range? I think it would be cool to see the cartoon-ish tanks done more realistic. Also glad you kept the intro tbh

[@johndaniels1197]

The techniques in this video helped me to get the surface texture right on a printed model of a huge toad monster. I dissolved plastic scraps in acetone until it was a thin paste, brushed that on the surface, and dabbed it with a brush to make a real rough chunky surface. That worked great. It gave the skin a nice texture and helps to hide layer lines. Thanks!

[@maiconwerplotz7206]

Uncle Night Shift "spit"....a brand new revolutionary modeling product!

[@wolki7487]

Pls, put it in bottles like Bell Delfin and sell it for 30 Dollars XD

[@FatCatGotHot]

When you like a video before actually having seen it. Oh, I'm so enthusiastic about this one! I work with heavy earthmoving machines and love to build scale models of them. Military modelers are often the spearhead of new modeling techniques , so I'm rubbing my hands to learn from you. I have waited for this quite long :o)

[@ScottKenny1978]

Check out the wargamers, too, for paint techniques. Piers Brand builds a crapton of 1/72 scale models, you can find him on Facebook.

[@FatCatGotHot]

@@ScottKenny1978 Thanks a lot, mate. I mostly build 1/87, sometimes 1/50 - so 1/72 is really close to my favorite scale

[@Panzermeister36]

Perfect. I've got a King Tiger and Jagdtiger that need some welds. You didn't cover the multiple-pass welds in the previous video so glad to see it here!

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

oooh I'd like to weld a KT! which kits do you have?

[@Panzermeister36]

@@NightShiftScaleModels it's the AMMO 1945 kit (reboxed Takom) and I've got some resin to correct it for the July 1945 version.

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

@@Panzermeister36 Noice. I'm torn between the Porsche KT (Anneliese) or Henschel in hand painted Ambush pattern...

[@Panzermeister36]

@@NightShiftScaleModels I did Anneliese back in May with the Dragon kit (still not edited that video) and it was fun. Those vehicles had some funky camouflage under the white so they make for interesting tanks for sure. Lots of extra tracks.

[@efeyigit6766]

I have the zvezda king tiger which is a dragon rebox. Still waiting for your king tiger series to build it. Gonna build it along with the master modellers like a big boy.

[@edstarling3834]

You got me back into armour modelling over lockdown, I thank you - even if my wallet and shelf space don’t! Keep up the great work!

[@gousmc1983]

Very glad to see you've been educating yourself on welding techniques and types, wonderful job

[@bryanmatthews8248]

Another great tutorial. I tried your texturing technique for the first time and love the results. I'll be trying weld lines next. Thanks for teaching us some great tips.

[@RockSplitter]

You're a hell of a good example to live up to, man. I'll do my best. And thanks again!

[@donfrandsen7778]

Well done!!!! Really in depth on texturing, weld seems and flame cuts, fantastic tips and video Love the choice jadgtiger , excellent Big fan of that beast!!!!!

[@wearejoe]

I did the armor texture thing you do on my first model because I thought it was missing something. Cool to see its actually something people do. Looks AMAZING.

[@patrickwilliams9935]

I really love these tutorials Martin, it takes modelling to a new level.

[@18voltmofo]

mentioned it before, but i really like how your models look with the armour texture, flame cut and weld beads done and not painted. Really shows off your handiwork

[@derekbaker3279]

Thanks Nightshift! Awesome tutorial & many helpful tips! And, great timing too, as I was just assessinng two kits I'm about to build in terms of what textures are absent or over-done, and what I will need to do to make each final model more realistic. ☺

[@riovonstahl2869]

infact, much more funny than the previous... and more detailed,, yet the new techniques are far superior! cool vid

[@leutnantkrafft73]

Wonderful. Wanted to have something like this to fully grasp what I need to start modelling seriously and what I have to learn.

[@peterhorne6837]

Thank you Martin, this certainly helps a lot, and gives me courage to try your techniques.

[@mrc4910]

Your technique guides are excellent. Keep them coming!

[@ScratchBashing]

I keep coming back to this gem!

[@ozzyo7287]

Excellent tutorial as always mate. Thanks for sharing it with us. Keep on the good work.

[@Youcanbuildmodels]

Is it sad that last week I felt off not having a night shift video. Its become part of my Friday morning routine

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

Well, now you'll be getting some very long and in depth videos in the upcoming weeks :)

[@mikemodels928]

Not only this is amazing tutorial it relates to the model i am currently building. You are a tank model master .

[@victoriadelacroix8570]

Fantastic texture making. I learned a lot from this video.

[@1mrchef954]

Thank you for sharing your modeling techniques. I am a beginner and it is a pleasure to learn and be able to put these new skills to use. They make my projects look so much more defined and interesting. Keep it up. I continue to follow your content. I am aware of your revised direction and want to encourage You to do what works for you and fits and feels right.

[@seanmillette4323]

This is going on the watch later list for after work. Have been really interested in this technique.

[@grotwurksmekshop6607]

Fantastic info! I am into 40k and making little goblin tanks so this is HUGELY helpful!

[@philipbabcock3851]

the intro is back! yay! LOVE!

[@zachnar0125]

I have to say these are the most helpful vids ive seen from you. The other ones are EPIC but more eye candy than instructional.

[@jonathanneale9677]

Thanks for your fantastic and helpful videos, sharing your techniques are greatly appreciated, my son and i are both doing a tank at the mo. Gotta say your video inspired me.

[@dirtydandinoman8902]

Ooh, so you did keep the intro. I love tutorial videos like these! So a model next week right?

[@NightShiftScaleModels]

Exactly!

[@larrymanns364]

Yeah! Another Night Shift video!

[@joseiparraguirre4366]

¡¡¡Muchas gracias por su trabajo!!! He aprendido mucho con sus videos. Un saludo a todos desde España.

[@silverphantom9675]

Love this video and this channel. You've definitely earned my sub, thanks for the inspiring content and the amazing guides. You're a great teacher and I love how you clearly explain everything.

[@nonamesplease6288]

Unwatchable Nightshifts? The hell you say!

[@max_scalemodeling6845]

Amazing tutorial, I helped me a lot with my Panther F weld seams.

[@stevenarmer8245]

I love watching your videos. Your funny, great personality for this type of channel. Thank you for all of your tips & tricks. Greetings from the United STATES 🇺🇸

[@rockboy3970]

Awesome, perfect timing. Im building a 40k imperial knight and intended to use these techniques

[@lordlorenzo5835]

Excellent content. Very informative. Thanks for all of your great vids.👍

[@jasonbrannock1698]

That's an amazing piece. The jagdtiger is one of my favorite tanks. Thanks.J

[@petervonfroster8i]

These look like they would help me as a beginner A LOT!

[@jilthunder2276]

Great research & work! Thank you very much for this video!

[@damirmejric3441]

I wanted to save a link to this video and other great tutorials, but then I remembered I don't need to - I just need to look for your channel on the YT, as your videos ROCK! Thank you, uncle :)

[@tortirion]

Hey Nightshift, could you put links to the tools you use in the description, especially when your describing tools used in different techniques?

[@stampyishere2556]

Super-Duper useful to us that stick with ypur channel since the old videos. 🙌

[@bruceosborne1892]

Excellent Tutorial.

[@MrSpriken]

Great videos! Thanks for showing how to do all these cool techniques

[@SubaruPieter]

This is very interesting, like basicly everything you show!👍🏻

[@joejuampere666]

I love it I just got the very same kit now I can really fallow a build with my own

[@garyparker2969]

So Glad You Did This 3-in-1 Video, Very informative For Me.Thanks n Have a Blessed Wknd.

[@apophislord4889]

I use dymo tape to help scribe lines straight and curved, but only use it on unpainted and primed surfaces, the adhesive will rip it off, bare plastic is best. Another great video!

[@that_fall6167]

ahh yes my two favourite uncles: uncle google uncle nightshift

[@guillermomelendez7950]

Very cool techniques!

[@vernski1015]

I have done this texturing effect with Vallejo's Plastic Putty, as it can be used with water to thin it out to consistency of whipped cream. It dries in a reasonable amount of time and gives you a nice effect.

[@daviddruxius6011]

Good Stuff for the 1:16 scale RC Models ..... Perfect Work 👍👍👍👍👍

[@fredrikhultman557]

Glorious! Inspiring stuff!

[@UnholyFrenzy_]

Yesterday I finally finished doing the welding on my first tank (1/35 Tiger) after months of buying it and now you posted this. Time to remove them and start all over lol By the way. I got really glad when I saw you using the glue on plastic method for armor texture cause I had to use that one since Tamiya putty is not available in my country. And since my brushes are quite new and soft I used old toothbrush and it seems to works better and faster for larger surfaces

[@ScottKenny1978]

If you can find them in your country, try looking for gun cleaning brushes (or on eBay). They're much more resistant to solvents. No, not the metal bristle brushes, the plastic bristle ones.

[@highdarktemplar]

super useful video, I have a M4A1 Sherman that's going to need some steel texture in the hull so I think I'm going to watch this a couple of times more.

[@russouk]

Thanks...im using the glue technique on my zvezda t34 turret where I had to glue the halves...join showed a slight join so doing this blended it into the texture of the cast turret...perfect

[@brianj1713]

Nice building one myself and your right about the instructions

[@thebobloblawshow8832]

Really cool tutorial. Loved it.

[@derekshores5839]

Another really useful and informative video. Having followed your advice and checked some reference photos I think that some of your welds are too nice! I have some photos of the Panzer 3 and Panzer 4 at Bovington and some of those welds look like badly ploughed fields. Keep up the good work

[@JedenSiedemDwa]

Very good "package of information". Your tutorials are priceless. ;)

[@GTfour01]

Night Shift, you're such a freak. Great work again. Thnx for the vid!

[@padraigmcconnell7015]

Dude! That's a serious patron size list you have. Excellent video too.

[@lat-roc9733]

The intro is ace You still sound like a madman And there is serious free information on offer....by said madman Good man

[@dareksosnowski8068]

This is some crazy ahh informative content!

[@CWModelling]

Very nice work 👍....the weld techniques are very reminiscent of a 1/16 Tiger I build that David Parker did in the Osprey book - Modelling the Tiger I but obviously on a smaller scale

[@ricardohaddad]

Amazing video. Congratulations!

[@SteveKeithmodels]

i find myself watching, and rewatching your videos.

[@tobysellors941]

Damn that's some lovely texture

[@JohnSmith-zv8km]

Learned a lot thanks

[@dominicsibthorp6502]

Great video. I am not an armour modeller but I can make use of some of these techniques on cars/bikes and even boats.

[@JonBius]

I need to try this on my walking tank thingy. Great video Martin!

[@joeromano5607]

Very nice technique, being a welder as well as fine scale modeler this is a very good replication

[@leonardusgroenendyk6027]

Bring back the BLOOPERS!

[@THROTTLEPOWER]

GREAT video my friend!!!!!!!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@doktorgusto7757]

Kolejna dobra lekcja . Dobra robota Night !

[@toby6326]

Sat here with my tortoise AKA my nature tank watching your video! Thanks for keeping us entertained every Friday

[@gregoru98]

Great summary.

[@AbstractArmorHLF]

A+ video. Thank you.

[@Wbmfishman1]

Wow. Can apply this to model railroading. Engine have to be repaired and welded. Great video. 👍

[@jonL88]

Oh yesss fun time with Uncle NS!

[@user-oo2yo2gn5s]

cool texture technique video.

[@alerrapalexrap36]

Amazing work... Congratulations ando tank you ...

[@hshanoo]

Very informative. Thank you and take care :)

[@yamabushi170]

Nice intro! The stuff with the modelling is pretty good too.

[@silverdragontm9548]

I missed your video last week, I hope your house is now clean and arranged 😉. Definitely will try out the techniques of today on my current Tiger II from takom. See you next week!

[@SteveJonesScaleModellingSite]

Hi Martin. I do try and improve the welds and surfaces on my builds but I can be lazy. I will concentrate more on these areas as it does make the builds so more realistic

[@myles-cohenchan4282]

Thanks for the tips!

[@lucachiarotto0422]

Welcome back dear uncle! Is good to see you again!

[@timothyperrigoue3997]

You are too critical of your old videos... they are how you got where you are now. I go back and check on such delightful and crazy items like the "Ball Tank" episodes. There are great references throughout. Also glad you kept the intro, Cheers!