Well, here’s my general sequence. But I don’t follow it religiously. I mix it up and try new approaches, in some aspect, pretty much every time.
First: Prime (I often use rattle-cans either Tamiya or even off-the-hardware store shelf.) Confession time: I’m often too lazy to drag out my airbrush, and clean up afterward for this step.
If I’m using the hairspray technique (for chipping German vehicles) I’d prime in rust red, then lay down a coat of hairspray.
Then comes the base coat Panzer grey, Dunkelgelb, etc.
Then chip. (Note: chipping isn’t really appropriate for, OD or green allied vehicles. It’s an issue with paint quality.
I don’t use any clear coats, but if I did, now would be a good time, to protect the paint.
I would then add cammo colors, and then chip them with a sponge or brush.
Usually decals or my preferred dry transfers (Archer) would usually be next.
I might dry-brush lighter shades on high points or sharp edges, at this point. Dry-brushing has seemed to lose popularity, lately, but I still think it has its place.
Paint all of the tools, external stowage, around now.
Then I’d lay on my first layer of panel-liner and washes – I use artists oils – Burnt Umber or Raw Umber, most of the time. They’re so forgiving – don’t like it: wash them away with a little thinner. It won’t hurt the acrylics underneath.
Again, some might use a clearcoat, either before or after that step. Not me.
Next would be whitewashes (if winter and so desired.)
Followed by more chipping, washes and panel liners
At this point I might use a graphite pencil to bring out a little metallic sheen on sharp edges.
Rust washes and chips might be added around now, to likely places.
Finally, I start on dust, dirt and mud. For dust I love artist oils (Titanium Buff). For the rest I employ various pre-mixed dirt and mud or dry pigments. Layer upon layer of this stuff…
Of course, depending on the vehicle, and the kit, I’d hold off on mounting the tracks as long as I can. Painting them separately, or perhaps before you mate the upper and lower hulls, is always best. I would certainly put them on the tank before you start the dirt and mud step. I must admit, though, that I have often enough painted the tracks, in place - as a later step.
There’s so much more I could or should say, but that’s the basics for me.
Check out the Night Shift channel on YouTube. He’s my current, favorite Guru, and he constantly varies his approach.
Hope this helps, (I’m sure I missed something, or many things, but I tried…)
Ralph