Looks like you've decided on your design now, but I think I recall an article in the 2mm mag ages ago on this subject. I think it was by Pete Wright but I'm not 100%sure. His approach involved using thin shim to make the stools. The shim was placed on a block of lead and attacked with a specially shaped punch tool to make the stool.

Absolutely exquisite (and that's just the drawing - the point rodding is even more impressive!)

How do you solder such small parts? A particularly small iron and tip - or is it just a normal iron and plenty of practice?

Thanks guys

The 'FPL' is quite useful, it hides the bit that operates the point really well too. Im not sure if every point on Highclere should have one but I have fitted one to every point.

As for the stools, you really cannot see them at normal viewing distance but I think in hindsight it is worth adding something to represent point rodding, even if its 'blobs' of solder. I really hope though that, with practice I can get the rest done alot quicker as that bit took quite a bit of time. It kind of stands out a bit right now as there is no ballast or weathering done yet, hopefully once that is done it will blend in a little more. The only problem now is the fact I have run out of stools so the point rodding has come to a halt for now, hopefully I can get some more soon.

The technique I use for soldering is a post in its own right! The only hint really is to use plenty of flux, that and I nearly always add solder to the iron then transfer it to the bits, normally when the bits are hot enough the solder will flow onto them, that way you can control the amount of solder and you are limiting the time you heat up the bits to the minimum needed.

M.

The 'FPL' is quite useful, it hides the bit that operates the point really well too. Im not sure if every point on Highclere should have one but I have fitted one to every point.

Probably only the ones on the main line. If you want to make sure on the size the dimensions are in the GWSG book on switch and crossing practice. Let me know if you want them.

As for the stools, you really cannot see them at normal viewing distance but I think in hindsight it is worth adding something to represent point rodding, even if its 'blobs' of solder.

I believe you on this one. I looked up how big a stool is. A fraction over 1mm tall and 0.5mm long at this scale. I feel that this is my main failing as a modeller: getting too caught up int the detail to be productive.

Thank you Pete ans Rich

Oh, and Pete, Im sure the mojo will return soon, just dont beat yourself up about it...

M.