I have finally started work on transforming the large fiddle yard into a scenic part of the layout.

I spent some time Das'ing up the track in replacing the rest with Peco narrow gauge track. While doing this I insulated the sidings and added new wire feeds so they are now live all the time (to keep the DCC sound going).

A detail shot to show the two track types.

I pressed the Das into the track with my fingers and scraped of the excess from the sides of the rails with a pick. When I was happy with the shape I stippled the surface with a paint brush to give it a ruff texture. I then painted the clay brown.

I then made a start on the mill building.

It's just a foam board shell at the moment. I have yet to cut out the windows and doors or make the roof.

As it is quite a large building, I have outlined the front of four gables to make it look more interesting and less plain.

I have also been working on a covered bridge for my new scenic section.

It's made from the Plasticville kit with plasticard abutments and deck, the latter is covered with coffee stirrers.

Here's how it looks as part of the scene so far.

Today, I have been working on a little magic, and it's not smoke...

I think it makes quite a difference.