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More scenic experimentation

TomE

Entry posted by TomE

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Hi all.

 

To begin with, a slight diversion from modelling, but in the name of research....Tangmere hauling the Dorset Coast Express just after passing Pirbright Junction on the 5th July:

 

050711-Tangmere016b.jpg

 

Back to modelling, following on from the previous entry I have constructed a larger test board to try out the method for producing bramble type ground cover. I was happy with the basic principals of using the Steel wool however I felt the Noch leaves were maybe a little on the large side for N. So, after a few passes through a sieve to weed (!) out the larger lumps I have tried producing a section of embankment similar to the section which will be needed on Ropley.

 

This is the real thing, and the effect I'm aiming for:

 

RopleyPD.jpg

 

The test piece was knocked together using some foamboard scraps and polyfiller, although I think another method of producing the landscape will be needed for the layout as the polyfiller adds quite a bit of weight. Once dry, the whole thing was sprayed with RailMatch Frame Dirt and before this was dry, Treemendus Earth powder sprinkled on the base of the embankment and a short way up it. This was done to try and recreate the appearance of earth being dug away. Once this was dry, a light covering of Woodland Scenics fine turf was applied as a base layer but leaving some of the earth powder exposed at the bottom:

 

060711-Ropley003a.jpg

 

After this, some steel wool was teased out, sprayed and the sieved leaves applied before being glued to the embankment. I left a few gaps here and there which then had Woodland Scenics Field Grass applied. Again I think Static grass will give a slightly better appearance here which is something to try next time:

 

060711-Ropley006a.jpg

 

After this had dried a very light dusting of frame dirt was applied to even out the appearance.

 

Sieving the leaves has helped I think. They are maybe still a little large but this doesn't stand out so much as part of a larger area. For comparison here’s the original test piece and the embankment together:

 

060711-Ropley009a.jpg

 

Next on the cards is those trees along the top of the embankment!

 

Cheers all,

 

Tom.

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-missy-

As what Pete said!

 

That does look very convincing, I will definately have to try out those leaves!

 

Missy :yes:

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TomE
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Thanks Pete & Missy :D

 

I'm quite pleased how it's turned out. The technique just needs fine tuning a little before it's used in anger on Ropley.

 

Tom.

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Will J

You have this pretty well sussed out Tom, if ever you need a slightly larger test plank I will gladly send you one in the post... It is about four feet long with a bridge in the middle ;)

 

I have been developing some related techniques using bunched up crumbs of sand and PVA, which when painted green give a remarkable suggestion of low, leafy balls of shrubbery... albeit dense, hardened balls, but at 2mm ish scale it works pretty well, the plan is for static grass to lightly flourish around the denser shrubs for a variety of textures.. more on this on my blog tonight if I get chance.

 

Keep up the good work!

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Brinkly
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Hi Tom,

 

That is a really nice effect, it looks just like scrub land on the modern railway scene.

 

Best wishes,

 

Nick

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TomE
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Thanks Nick, Dave & jackrob!

 

Will - I don't think it'll fit in the letter box ;) I'll watch for your blog update, always interested in different ways of producing scenics!

 

Cheers,

 

Tom.

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