I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. I’m trying to weather a tunnel portal. I painted it with a acrylic paint and bought weathering chalk. I brush in the chalk but it dosent stay I tried painting a flat clear and that didn’t help either. What do I need to do. I know people do it this way but I guess I’m missing something. Any help would be appreciated
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On a large surface like that the first choice would be to thin out some black acrylic and apply as a wash.
To answer the statement/question above, apply soot powder using your finger, not a brush. The problem is most likely due to the type of bristle. That really makes a difference in powder applications. Most cheap brushes use shiny synthetic type bristles, no good. Seek a more natural hair pro artist brush for powder application.
Brushes - https://www.thoughtco.com/know...and-bristles-2577905
Either method should work using the proper components.
That's some great advice (above) including one from the master weatherer (SIRT). Only thing I would add is that the powders you're using may be just chalks as opposed to weathering powders (from BarMills, Bragdon, etc.) which have adhesive in them. For application, I use small, soft make-up brushes which have very soft bristles and therefore, provide a subtle application. If it goes on too heavy, you can wipe them with your finger or a rag. Otherwise, I personally like alcohol/india ink mix, particularly on brick and stone work so it gets in the crevices.
Thanks J.
Bragdon 
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