...for an update. The good news is that I've finished studying and completed my second degree which has given me a lot more time for modelling. The interest and motivation is still there, but I've been concentrating recently on building some of the many kits I have stashed away. That's for another post, but in the meantime here are a few photos to show where I am with Kings Vale.
The toilet block has been placed a the up end of the platform and the station sign is done and gives the layout an identity.
This tree shows the green-grey fungus which often grows on the southern face of tree trunks.
I am not completely satisfied with the foliage on this tree, so will come back to it. I found the two Wild Swan books on modelling trees excellent, and a recent visit to London allowed me to acquire all the various materials used in those books for representing branches and foliage.
This view shows the now installed toilet block and the static grass and other landscaping I have completed.
Attempting to re-create the colours and types of foliage, soil and gravel around the station area.
With the landscaping of this module almost complete, I've started working on a second module which is the southern end of Kings Vale, but I'm thinking that this should also be an off-stage staging yard so that I can assemble and run some trains.
One of the "interesting" problems I have is the Simply Glues ballast adhesive is corroding the track. It's easily removed, but clearly it's more than PVA, water and detergent in that stuff!
Following mixed results from other Simply Glues products I no longer use any of it, that is not saying anything against the whole range of products, but more the case of finding more than adequate alternatives.
ReplyDeleteWhile I use a fairly weak solution of Parfix PVA for the initial securing of track & first laying of slightly larger ballast, I have moved away from using PVA as the final top coat, rather to use an acrylic paint similar to Matte Medium.
The product is called Perma Plastik, its obtainable (or was) in a clear paint extender tin, that does not dry to a waxy look that sometimes happen with PVA mixes, it also does not darken the ballast like PVA does either.
I also have used it watered down with success for static grass, but primarily as a gluing application, with ballast. You can get it from a store on Corner Marsden & Victoria Rd West Ryde called paint wholesalers of Australia.
Its not that cheap, but it works for me. Matte Medium may also be a better option to try.
Looking good James.
ReplyDeleteI'm starting on scenery myself as you may have seen and am looking forward to getting some dirts and grasses down.
Cheers.
G'day James.
ReplyDeleteReally nice work there!
What colour did you paint the galv iron on the C1?
Cheers,
Tom (Murum)