Preshading under dark color??

[Dens228]

I'm working on my fourth model since getting back into the hobby and am enjoying trying various new methods as I do each plane.
Specifically the weathering techniques. My current project is the Edaurd F6F-5N and am painting it Glossy Sea Blue. I had planned on making my first attempt at preshading but as I watch various videos I'm wondering if I'll even be able to see any of it after painting the top color since it's so dark.
Any thoughts or suggestions or should I wait until I build a plane with a lighter shade of top coat?

 

[mark2]

Should be OK if you don't put the topcoat on to heavy, experiment on something first ,see if you can get a result you like.

 

[BarleyBop]

experiment on something first

Excellent advice that I keep forgetting; prototype, prototype, and prototype some more!

 

[Edbert]

You are correct in thinking that preshading is easily lost with a dark color layer. This can be overcome to a large degree by spraying the color in VERY thin coats. Like 80% thinner - 20% color. Then slowly building up the color without wiping out the underlayer.

The other way around this issue is post-shading. When doing that method I'd start with a darker-than-final color, apply the second layer with slightly lighter, apply the third layer with lighter still. Of course leaving much of the previous color visible. I've seen some painters apply 6 or more layers this way, with the final being a dusting almost. The final layers of this process are often used to produce sun-fading.

One concern I have though, you said the glossy blue. I know exactly what you mean by this and most pictures I've seen that glossy paint stood up to sun and salt-spray better than the flat paints did. So the extent of the variations were less severe. You could probably get that done with only three passes of post-shading. Also you can use flat paints and put the gloss down as a protectant/sealer in clear form.

This is not the glossy blue you are talking about, but a dark blue that still shows the pre-shading.



Edit:

This picture might be post-war, I'm just not knowledgeable enough to say, I see the radar, but those saw service in 1945. Anyway, I put it here to show there's not a lot of damage to the paint. I see some gloss but not high, maybe more "satin"?


Something about this picture looks to be enhanced, it is claimed to be real but what can I say? Again the finish is between flat and gloss.


This one looks more like what I'd expect from a craft in daily service for a significant length of time, even if flying uneventful CAP. I think the last one might be a 1944 picture.