Bristol_Rich Posted September 10, 2018 Share Posted September 10, 2018 I’m part way through converting/updating an old 4mm Hornby 6.5t hand crane. I’ve removed the originally supplied chain with the aim to represent the more prototypical arrangement of the cable operated jib and lifting hook. What do people recommend using to represent the steel cable rigging? The obvious choice would be to use Cotton/thread but to me this looks ‘fluffy’ and ‘looks like cotton’. I’m also keen to replicate the saggy ‘weighty’ appearance of the cable so any alternative needs to be flexible enough to model the relaxed sag... I’ve seen the Mig productions ship rigging but unsure if this is flexible/pliable enough - it’s elastic therefore I’m assuming it needs to be fixed in tension? Anyone got any thoughts? Thanks! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fat Controller Posted September 10, 2018 Share Posted September 10, 2018 I’m part way through converting/updating an old 4mm Hornby 6.5t hand crane. I’ve removed the originally supplied chain with the aim to represent the more prototypical arrangement of the cable operated jib and lifting hook. What do people recommend using to represent the steel cable rigging? The obvious choice would be to use Cotton/thread but to me this looks ‘fluffy’ and ‘looks like cotton’. I’m also keen to replicate the saggy ‘weighty’ appearance of the cable so any alternative needs to be flexible enough to model the relaxed sag... I’ve seen the Mig productions ship rigging but unsure if this is flexible/pliable enough - it’s elastic therefore I’m assuming it needs to be fixed in tension? Anyone got any thoughts? Thanks! There's something called 'parachute cord' used by jewellers etc which might be of use. It's non-elastic. Lynne gets hers from Cooksons. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spitfire2865 Posted September 10, 2018 Share Posted September 10, 2018 Perhaps for the steel cables, you could take some soft electrical wire, strip it of insulation, and twist them together in a pinchuck. It wouldnt be totally slack, but you could shape it to that relaxed look. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gordon A Posted September 10, 2018 Share Posted September 10, 2018 Button thread does not have that fluffy look. Model boat parts suppliers may be worth investigating. I would be interested in knowing the outcome to this question. Gordon A Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
amdaley Posted September 10, 2018 Share Posted September 10, 2018 Have a look at braided fishing line. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bristol_Rich Posted September 10, 2018 Author Share Posted September 10, 2018 Thanks all this is all useful....I’ll post up the results! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold The Johnster Posted September 10, 2018 RMweb Gold Share Posted September 10, 2018 Does the crane need to operate, or is it to be static? If the latter, it might be worth using cotton thread dipped in a 50/50 PVA/water mix; this should dry without looking fluffy and remain fairly rigid in the correct position. I've not done this, mind, it's just an idea that could be worth trying out! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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