General Techniques

Creating Water Effects

This guide provides an overview of the range of materials available for creating realistic water effects in scale modelling, from still ponds and deep pours to waterfalls, rapids, waves and ripples. It explains the properties and uses of various products—including resins, heat-activated compounds, water-effects gels, and clear textured sheets—and outlines their strengths, limitations, and ideal applications. The document also covers supplementary techniques using PVA and heat tools, helping modelmakers choose the most suitable method for producing convincing aquatic surfaces and dynamic water features.