With the main structure of the Panzer IV built, it’s time to move on to painting.

This particular Panzer served at the Battle of Kharkov in the spring of 1943, and wore a factory applied winter whitewash over the recently adopted dunkelgelb (dark yellow) base color.

While I had planned to try the “hairspray technique”, it seems that is better used for heavily worn whitewash and similar effects. Since I’m going for a fresher whitewash, I decided to leave the technique for another time.

What Can Brown Do For You?

After my success with using dark base coats on the Sherman and Achilles, I decided to try the same process here. Only, instead of black, I used a dark brown.

Dunkelgelb

The next step was to go over the brown with Model Master dunkelgelb enamel, keeping the spray pattern light around edges to give the paint depth and character.

I have to say, I love the way this came out, and is has me eager to build an Afrika Korps Panzer using this dark base technique.

Whitewash

For the whitewash, I used Tamiya XF-2 Flat White, at a ratio of 2:5 paint to lacquer thinner. Once again, I sprayed with a light hand, leaving patches uncovered or half-covered. Again, I’m pretty happy with how it came out.

Next up, decals, prepping the Legend Productions stowage, and getting a start on the detail work!