SPA Modeler

Do they work best on a flat coat? I did a test on a mule kit on satin black. It didn’t seem to want to take. Am I doing something wrong? I tried watching “how to” YouTube videos but none were quite helpful. One tip looks to be a great idea is buy those cheap eye shadow sponges....

Yes, they work best on a flat coat. There is more surface friction due to the flat finish to grab the pigments.
Yes, make up sponges work fine. For smaller more precise applications I have used micro brushes, or small paint brushes as well. 0 size or smaller.

Yes, I agree with Carlos: flat coat is best. I will wet them myself, forming a loose paste and then paint them on my models. After it dries, I take a semi-wet sponge/Qtip/paper towel/ finger and wipe off the powder that I want to remove. A very tiny amount still stays behind on the flat cvoat, giving everything a lightly dusted appearance... at least on my small scale stuff...

You can see the results most clearly here with the sand colored powder:



Here's a similar effect with the darker tan color:



Hopefully this helps a little....

Yeah, it helps. Trying to achieve weathering around the superchargers on my P-38 Lightning Nightfighter.