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Metal bushes

TomE

Entry posted by TomE

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Hi all.

 

There are plenty of excellent materials available these days for producing scenics, many of which give excellent results without much effort. However I find scenics one of the most satisfying parts of building a model and I'm always on the lookout for materials which are easy to pick up but will give the same results as some of the products you can buy.

 

Whilst I'm waiting for more track parts to arrive, I have been trying out methods of producing undergrowth for use on Ropley. I had seen reference to using Steel wool in tree making and whilst in a well known orange supplier of building materials picked up a roll for future experimentation. Having used seafoam on the modern image test plank for low growth on the embankments, I was looking for something a bit finer in appearance and the steel wool looked just right for this too.

 

Here is the product off the shelf:

 

270611-017a.jpg

 

This was gently teased out into roughly the shape I was looking for:

 

270611-018a.jpg

 

It was then given a liberal coat of Railmatch Frame Dirt. Don't be shy with the spray!

 

270611-020a.jpg

 

Before this was dry, it was quickly dipped into a bowl filled with Noch Leaves (two different colours mixed were used here):

 

270611-021a.jpg

 

And this is the result attached to a small piece of foamboard covered with Treemendus Normandy Earth Powder and some Woodland Scenics field grass added. This would probably benefit from being applied with a static applicator:

 

270611-016a.jpg

 

270611-011a.jpg

 

Really the Noch leaves are a little on the large side for N, I need to find a way of making them a bit smaller, but the effect is quite pleasing (to my eye anyway!)

 

Experiments with trees are next on the cards.

 

Cheers all.

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8 Comments

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  • RMweb Gold
TomE
  • RMweb Gold

Thanks James. The photos are about 8 times the size of the actual piece of foam board!

 

Tom.

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shortliner

The only problem with steel wool is that it has been known to migrate towards magnets in motors, doing them a great deal of no good. I'd keep a small rare-earth magnet around, and pass it over the area every so often, in case of loose bits.

  • Like 1
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  • RMweb Gold
TomE
  • RMweb Gold

I hadn't even thought of that! Running a magnet over it is probably a wise move but I think the dousing in paint then foliage should stop any stray strands. A final coat of hairspray will also help keep everything where it should be.

 

Tom.

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-missy-

That looks really good Tom.

 

I have been using a very similar technique to that but with carpet underlay instead of the steel wool. I like the idea of using the leaves though, is there any chance you could post a picture with some kind of scale next to it please so I can get a feel for the size.

 

Thank you.

 

Missy :yes:

  • Like 1
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  • RMweb Gold
TomE
  • RMweb Gold

Here you go Missy:

 

270611-025a.jpg

 

As I say, I think the leaves are a little on the big side for N/2mm out of the bag. Maybe passing them through a sieve before to remove the larger pieces would help, something I'll try next time.

 

Cheers,

 

Tom.

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  • RMweb Gold
Brinkly
  • RMweb Gold

That is cracking Tom, really glad I came across your blog!

 

Regards,

 

Nick

  • Like 1
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