i have found that beginning modelers tend to make a big deal out of weathering which is understandable because you're basically mucking up a finished model and you dont want to ruin it. In all reality weathering is not as difficult as it seems. This is probably the part of the modeling process where you have the most artistic freedom. Companies like MIG and promodeller have created products that are what I call idiot proof. If your not sure of yourself or a technique practice on a junker, or a piece of styrene. Chances are you will like what you see.