Many thanks. This is just a test. In the photo on the first page the aircraft looks far from pristine so I thought I'd try some pre-shading. I didn't want to use black, being too stark, but too late in realizing that this shade of grey might be too light. C'est la vie.
Now you just need to make sure your paint goes on in very light, thin coats until you achieve the effect you want. Nice to see you experimenting with colour variations.
Looks ok Geo, I've been playing with that technique myself. There are two methods of achieving a similar result, one being what you are doing, a light and dark pattern of an undercoat, or to lighten/darken the base color. I tend to lean more to the later as you have more control over the immediate outcome. I would suggest maybe starting out by lightening highlights and work toward a random pattern rather then just spraying random dots.
Thanks Tim. I'll try using the later method for the top side. One thing I'm trying to figure out is how to achieve the dusty look of the photo. Looking at lightly dusting diluted Middlestone or RLM 79 on after the decals
I'm particularly Leary of pics, especially B&W, where equipment looks very dusty/grungy, I think it's a trick of the light. What you'd be more likely looking at is along the lines of "road film", which I think a subtle mix of pastels, Matt and semigloss clear coats bring out. the best. Along the same lines of what you are thinking is to add a touch of grey or brown to the clear coat which is a more controllable approach.
Not Malta but I think from the same climate so would probably give you a good idea of what you are shooting for
Doing some little stuff. Struts and hubs painted with XF-32 and weathered with Citadel Agrax Earth; one strut not weathered yet to show the difference. Exhausts painted with Mr. Hobby H-76 Burnt Iron