Jump to content
 

bcnPete

RMweb Gold
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    5,611

  • Joined

  • Last visited

  • Days Won

    2

 Content Type 

Blog Entries posted by bcnPete

  1. bcnPete
    My fellow Americans
     
    Whilst a little more detailing progress has taken place the last few days, I will wait until I return from the UK to add a blog entry to cover those.
     
    Meanwhile, when I first found and joined the RMweb (circa 2009 I think) my very first entry to introduce myself and the layout gave a link to a freebie website that I had previously set up. As the addiction of RMweb gradually followed the website was neglected in favour of a RM layout thread which eventually became this blog. I had always intended to redo the website, as the freewebs hosting got on my goat due to the huge advert dominating the top of the page...of which you have no control of content...
     
    So yesterday, in between the kids disputing about absolutely everything, I found that weebly do freebie websites without huge ads dominating the pages. Using one of their minimalist templates (I'm not big on the green but I can't change that) I have created a new base for CJM.
     
    I still intend to detail the construction of the layout on the blog here so it is more a snapshot of the idea and model rather than a detailed account.
     
    If of interest it can be found here at coombejunctionmoorswater and I would welcome any comments you may have...
     
    Many thanks in advance,
     
    Pete
  2. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    An update on progress of late. I have still trying to tackle some of those smallish bits and pieces I have been putting off but once I got stuck in I kind of enjoyed it. It began with completing the lining to the clay settling tanks in white plasticard and I can now think about how to best try and represent the clay...I'm currently thinking resin mixed with milk of magnesia
     
    The last piece of roofing has been made and now covered in profiles sheeting in the same manner as described previously (I had to check my own blog entry to remember how I did it as I had so many goes at it!) This roof has been made removable just in case any train failures as the access from behind is a tad limited. This roof will be primed soon and then painted and weathered as of those recently described.
     
    I then started work on the smaller structures comprising the clay dries. Unfortunately, most of this has disappeared now since becoming a cement terminal so I am working off a small selection of photos cobbled together over the years researching. Whilst I would have liked scale drawings etc, I think that if we can capture the appearance of something then that is a good compromise. Scott (Stoker) kindly marked up a photo I had the other year which has helped give names to some of the equipment at the dries area.
     
    Firstly, I add some steps to the fuel oil tank. These are curving away into the background to meet an access deck but I haven't thought whether I will make the curved handrail yet. I started to add a curved handrail to the top but stripped it off as it started getting all 50p piece like ...save that for another day that one.
     
    Secondly, a smaller deck structure which protudes from an opening halfway up the cladding in the rotary dries building. This has been formed from Evergreen I section and various plasticard offcuts.
     
    Next, the structure which supports the steam exhaust stack and exhaust scrubbing unit and this again formed of Evergreen I section and plastic sheet/rod etc. The tube of one of my sons felt tip pens seemed to be perfect diameter for one of the cylindrical elements....hence the writing on it at present! The steam exhaust pipe has been connected through to the roof of the rotary dries building and will be fixed in due course.
     
    Then the walkway that connects the old clay dries with the rotary clay dries. The access to the old clay dries is through the small 'add on' structure in the roof whilst the deck spans across the tracks to the rotary dries building.
     
    Finally, a small exhaust vent added from the roof of the rotary dries. There will be a few other small stacks (some large ones too) added so this one was more of a test to see how it looked.
     
    The handrails are made from Evergreen styrene rod and whilst it would be nice to etch them, it would take a month of Sundays for me to draw them all out, organise them and order them and it will just prolong progress on the layout. Besides, I kinda like the slightly wonky not quite perfect effect...reminds me of some Contractors I know...
     
    Enough of all that waffle...lets see it in pics...albeit unpainted and whilst individually they don't look like much, when placed together insitu it hopefully helps to capture the scene of the clay dries. Still quite a bit to add but what I thought was going to be a chore turned out to be quite fun.
     

    Roof completed...awaiting grey primer to flush out nasty bits!...
     

    Fuel oil store with steps added...freaky shadow eh? The propeller of the Titanic perhaps?
     

    Small protruding access deck structure...
     

    Support structure for steam exhaust stack...
     

    High level deck structure connecting old dries with rotary dries buildings...
     
    And then gradually placed insitu to show position and build up the scene...
     

    Walkways in place...
     

    Fuel oil store positioned...
     

    Steam exhaust stack positioned...
     

    Overall showing the test exhaust vent at the roof of the rotary drier in the foreground...
     

    Lastly, a tree shamelessly stuck in the earth temporarily to help try and set the scene...static grass and foilage will be a separate exercise...
     
    That's all for a little while from me as the end of next week we will be heading for slightly colder climes in the form of a week in Cornwall and I hope its as good as our trip their last year. Whilst dropping in on my folks I will also collect various strange railway related goodies that have accumulated mainly 2mmFS related...and a few senior scale elements which are best not discussed on this here blog...
  3. bcnPete

    up on the roof...

    By bcnPete,

    Update - Good evening,
     
    Work has continued on the inset track area sanding, painting etc etc but to give myself a break from it I decided to start painting the roof of both dries buildings.
     
    Working from a mix of photos of how they used to be late in the late 70's and also from now(ish) I have applied some base colour over the grey primer that was.
     
    The paints are mostly acrylic from a wargamer shop near where I teach and a few railmatch acrylic. I must admit I am starting to prefer working with these acrylics now then the Humbrol pots which are gradually drying up and the ease of rinsing brushes and lack of smell wafting from the DRT are also a bonus.
     
    Enough rambling - First I applied some blue/grey to the Rotary dries building to the walls and then the roof has been painted with sleeper grime. Once these were dry I started to work in some weathering powders dry brushing with fairly large brushes.
     
    Then for the Old dries building I have painted most of the roof with railmatch rust. There are some newer replaced parts of the roof which initially were painted the blue/grey colour and then some brown powder has been applied to represent rust appearing.
     
    The powders used were a mixture of black, white and brown (I can be more specific if required)
     
    In reality, to represent the buildings when china clay not cement was King at Moorswater I need to give them a good dusting of white powder...or talc as has been suggested. But before that, I am trying to get the base colours to look convincing.
     
    Its early days as I still need to finish the roof construction over the covered area but here's a few pics of work in progress...
     

     
    Overall plan shot...
     

     
    Rotary Dries building...
     

     
    Old dries building...
     

     
    View along top...
     

     
    Seen from track level...
  4. bcnPete
    Good afternoon,
     
    This post is threefold really...
     
    First, the inset track of CJM is stalling mojo at present so a good time to jump on the overnight sleeper bound for Scotland...
     
    Secondly, I had been asked to provide a few photos to the 2mm Association of the track (for possible inclusion in a revised edition of a 2mm article on track) hence the need to photograph it.
     
    Thirdly, I recently bought a Sigma 70-300mm lens with Macro for the camera so I wanted to test it out.
     
    It was nice to slide the layout off the shelf brackets and see it again after the recent period of wrestling with redoing the inset track and the first thing that struck me was that it was a pleasure to have a portable layout that didn't need to be connected and joined together to get running...all self contained on one (you guessed it) Ikea Lack shelf (no royalties by the way)
     
    Upon blowing away the dust and seeing how the backscene has become delaminated again I decided to try and re-photograph the picture I posted sometime ago when I was trying to recreate a scene from the Michael Palin Rail Journeys video.
     
    At the time I had taken a few snapshot stills off the TV on my phone and it was good reference material for the station etc. Here is the picture I was referring to...
     

     
    I had to remove the Scottish blue sign firstly and using the Scalescenes station signs download, I printed some standard BR Black and white signs instead.
     
    And here is my new attempt at it...this one actually shot with my standard 50mm Nikon lens...tripod, self timer, natural light in case of interest.
     

     
    Disclaimer: I know the loco in the prototype is the 'other' end (but I didn't finish front end detail on that yet) and the BR blue colours are a bit different...the ramp is steeper than in reality...oh and the coach should have a Scottish number...and the roof vent detail is different etc etc...but it was the first attempt since completing the layout...
     
    Here's another from a slightly different vantage point...
     

     
    Then using the new lens, this shot was taken from about 2 metres away from the layout....
     

     
    And lastly, again with the Sigma on Macro mode...
     

     
    In summary, it was nice to see the layout again and I would like to get around to working on some more dedicated rolling stock for it, but CJM beckons. I am very happy with the new lens and I hope to be able to understand it better through further use so there may be the odd post again appearing on here.
     
    Must go now...the sleeper is leaving bound for Cornwall...
     
    EDIT: During a 5 min break at the office this morning and armed with an espresso, I dropped an image into PAINT and had a quick play around. I am not that familiar with these packages yet but inspired by the work of Jon Sandhills I had a quick play around with the contrast and brightness and got this...a bit better perhaps and worthy of spending more than 5 minutes on next time...
     

  5. bcnPete

    on the verge...

    By bcnPete,

    Update - Those familiar with my efforts know that my blog entries usually fall into two categories: or
     
    Unfortunately...this one is the latter...
     
    Following progress with the base layer of the scenics last reported, I felt it was really time to tackle what I had been avoiding...that being get some trains running again in the dries area on the infilled track. This had worked fine prior to the card and filler and paint applications, so after much scraping, sanding and swearing the tracks were brought back to shiny rail and power applied.
     
    Ziltch My class 25 didn't even get past the turnout...and after a few trial and errors (I don't have a meter and even if I did don't have have the brains to know how to work one) I concluded that part of the frog had become detached from the pcb and hence the power to that part. Sharp eyes may have already noticed on the last entry that one of the rails had come undone from the tiebar so with the soldering iron out this was tackled too. Resolved? Not quite The 25 was struggling in the infilled area and at one point (as in the first attempt at the infilled area) was gliding sideways across the infill as if it was ice than concrete
     
    So out came the screwdrivers, track rubber, emery paper, files, mallet and fruity language and it was attacked until at least my 25...and then my 47 (standing in for a 37 whilst I await the wheels) could run through the turnout and into the covered area...and back again.
     
    So, slightly crest fallen at ruining the painted surface I again gave it a coat of Humbrol Matt 28 (quite a nice colour for concrete) this morning and stood back and evaluated it. The surface is not brilliant and I am on the verge of ripping it up for the second time...but I am not sure I have the stamina to redo it all again for a third time.
     
    Whilst I can perhaps work with the surface to try and bring it back (the card areas have become 'furry' in places) it all looks a bit patchy and I can't stand the idea I am settling for a half bodged attempt. Perhaps I should stick to static dioramas in future as that at least avoids part of the running issues...
     
    Here's a couple of pics anyway as I like to try and update my blog every couple of weeks...even if things are not going as planned...
     

     

     

     
    Time to give it some hard thought....again...
  6. bcnPete
    Update - It's been a strange time of late...
     
    The following tale of woe's hopefully describes what's been happening here in sunny economic disaster ridden Spain.
     
    Having remade the mini sliding traverser beneath the dries covered area which serves as the loco release, this was wired with a very Heath Robinson kind of affair, which thankfully will be hidden from view and work then turned to redoing the inset track...again.
     
    Having failed last time using a clay product I found in an art shop here, I decided a new approach was required. Firstly the trackwork was reconstructed and instead of using easitrac I opted for code 40 soldered to PCB, mainly so I could insert a check rail. The plan was to use card for the outer track areas and some kind of filler (be it Sculptamuld or clay) for between the check rails. I revisted the artshop and rather than purchase the same clay as last time I opted for something different. 'It just needs to be fired to make it dry said the very helpful lady...so you can put it in the oven if need be'...then followed my description, in Spanish, of how an IKEA 1100mm long LACK shelf, wouldn't quite fit in our oven
     
    Here's the clay opted for...
     

     
    This time...a redish brown colour rather than the off white used previously...
     
    So I set to work, carefully applying the clay to the inset between the checkrails and here is how it looked before turning in for the night...
     

     
    The clay was kneaded into place without water...
     
    When I awoke the next morning it had all cracked again... I decided to re-read my last blog entry from the disasters before...why did I not do this before I started the clay again...
     

     
    Cracking shot...
     
    I had not coated it with a layer of PVA before...I had not put a first lower layer prior to adding a top level...I had not drunk enough Gin-Tonics...what was I doing? Nevertheless, I decided that if I sanded it all smooth, with a little sanding paper, I could reduce the level and then add a second layer...right? ...wrong! As soon as I started to sand it, it started to split into separate pieces, between the sleepers and became loose and unsettled...so, it all had to come up...again...
     

     
    After the Jack Hammer gang had been deployed...
     
    So, time for a rethink. Was it the clay? Probably not, although some peeps hinted that using DAS would have avoided this. Undeterred from this, I decided to visit the local DIY shop and bought a tube of flexible wood filler. A small test on this revealed that it did not crack, however rather than fill between the checkrails with all filler, I decided to cut 1mm strips of white artists card and insert between, with the idea of filling the gaps left with filler. Close examination of the track at Moorswater shows a thin line between the rails and concrete where the concrete has cracked and weeds are forming...a precedent! The sides were then added in the same 1mm white artists card secured with superglue.
     

     
    Card infills in place..crude or what?...
     
    Before I added the filler, I thought I had better do a quick test to see that the trains still trundled up and down...and disaster struck Only one track worked...the controller was showing a short circuit. Then followed various tests, before I realised that perhaps one of the sleepers which had been pre-gapped, had closed up again...or summat. So I ripped up the infill to that track and began attacking the sleeper gaps with a blade, and just after a got to the other end, it was tested and was working again...hurrah!
     
    Card re-inserted again and the flexible wood filler then applied, firstly carefully working around the joints...and then moving at a more rapid pace and opting to clean up afterwards. I removed the offending filler between the rails and first thing this morning I ran a test class 47 into the area...and not surprisingly it coughed after the turnout and struggled to progress. Then followed me attacking it sanding, scraping, skimming, dusting, cleaning, sanding again (the rails must be code 30 now!) until the locos would run...and now they do
     
    I attach a few photos of how it is now. It's not pretty, but I think it can be worked with paints and weathering to achieve the concrete appearance...and the locos appear to work okay on it. So, finally it looks like I can get back to developing this board further as the inset area was hanging over me like a grey cloud.
     

     
    Plan shot following scraping...
     

     
    The surface will need some colouring to enhance it...
     

     
    But overall, its hopefully starting to convey the 'inset track' look...
     
    In other 'local news', I somehow managed to drop my stockbox yesterday, prior to testing, and sent nearly a dozen 2FS locos flying to the floor, dismantling bogies and various bits and pieces in the process. Rather than tackle it yesterday, I calmly gathered it all, reboxed it and will take a look in a few days to asses any damage. Perhaps my eyes need a retest again to be working in this scale...
     
    Is now a good time to mention I have purchased a bit more 7mm scale stuff?
  7. bcnPete
    Update
     
    The Prisoner has ESCAPED
     
    By popular request...or perhaps the last dose of comments I decided to remove the white balls. They have served their purpose but its fair to say they were stunting progress a tad.
     
    So to help move things forward I have started the scenics. Beginning with sloshing around a bit of grey paint to see where the road is. Not the final surface or colour but it does help focus the mind and flush out the nasties. The next move was to slosh on some brown paint to cover the sculptamould and seal the ground surface.
     
    Then, whilst you may have been enjoying the Jubilee celebrations, I was ballasting the remaining section of the line aided and betted with a large glass of rose.
     
    And finally, the first layer of grass. This uses up my 25 year old mix of (Carrs burnt leaves I think) scatter which has no real purpose other than to cover the brown and wait for the static grass applications. Lessons learnt previously using static grass on the brown paint meant several applications were required.
     
    To cap off, the whole lot has been given a coat of the cheapest, sickliest smelling Spanish hair spray...to add much needed 'volume and bounce'...because it's worth it...
     
    A few pics and will return when the static grass goes in...its starting to get somewhere now...I think...
     

     
    Brown paint, grey paint and ballast...
     

     
    First layer of grass added...
     

     
    Covers up the brown and provides a base...
     

     
    View into the dries...
     

     
    37135 awaiting loading of the CDA's...
  8. bcnPete
    ...since I last updated...
     
    Despite having a very severe attack of 7mmitus this last month, I have not lost focus on trying to make some progress on CJM this year.
     
    Various small things have been tackled...all of which individually I had been putting off, so I decided to bite the bullet and get stuck in with them.
     
    1 - I have permanently glued the two main dries buildings in place Whilst it would have made far more sense to complete them, paint and weather etc, before attaching, I know what I am like
    and I would have just kept putting that off and off...so progress would have stalled for months - Result. whack em down and get a wiggle on...
     
    2 - Some of the small retaining walls have been formed in either stone or plasticard...
     
    3 - A small set of steps have been formed adjacent to the old dries building and these will be weathered in to the scenics so they almost disappear...
     
    4 - Moorswater viaduct has been repositioned as the legs were buckled...some more cuts of the scenics adjusted this fairly swiftly...
     
    5 - The cylindrical stone building now has a proper roof...and now doesn't resemble the cut down bottle of vitamin tablets it once was...
     
    6 - The china clay 'vats' have started to be lined...they will have some sort of whitish resin poured once complete...
     
    7 - The backscene has been sanded and repainted in an effort to hide the joints...but still needs further sanding and painting I note...
     
    8 - The mini sliding traverser is wired and works albeit Heath Robinsonish...
     
    9 - The internal wall of the hidden dries area has been constructed and remains in place whilst the sliding traverser slides beneath it...
     
    10 - Turnout primed and ready for application of paint and ballast...
     
    That's it...each in themself nothing special but the sum of the whole marks progress...
     
    A few pics...not great quality I am afraid...haven't found how to stop the auto flash popping up and firing despite the bright sunlight available...
     

     
    Overall...new low level walls in place...
     

     
    Small steps...which will be almost lost in the scenics...
     

     
    Cylindrical dries building, sliding traverser and interior walls...
     

     
    Overall...backscene still needs sanding and repainting...
     

     
    Just an excuse to sneak in the Dapol FGW 153...a bit out of my era, but a lovely model that needed to be had...
     
     
    Back soon I hope with more progress...
  9. bcnPete

    under the weather...

    By bcnPete,

    Update - That title's twofold really.
     
    Firstly, I lost most of last week due to some gastro which struck me down...a trip to a rather fine Indian restaurant here soon put my stomach on track...
     
    Secondly, I got stuck in on some more weathering of the rolling stock. Again, using dry brushing techniques and a few MIG powders with a few strokes with some cotton buds too. Its not up there with Mercig's weathering by a long shot but it has given me a little more confidence to keep having a go. I also dunked some DG couplings in a shallow bath of metal black and will swap some of the earlier fitted ones which tend to stick out like a sore thumb in brass.
     
    I attach a few photos first of the Dapol 26 and then the Farish 24. I wish the respective manufacturers in China would sit round a table and agree a common colour for BR Blue It makes it impossible for them to appear together on the layout...although on this layout I think the loco employed on pass engaged in some shunting between shifts.
     
    Enough of this waffle...here's some photos...
     

     
    Dapol 26...a little more grubbier now...
     

     
    Farish 24...hopefully not overcooked...
     

     
    They make a lovely couple...
     

     
    This one is for Mike (PaternosterRow) who asked to see the station building...damn that platform surface needs resticking...
     

     
    Side on view...
     

     
    26038 awaits its next turn of duty...
     

     
    Seen arriving from a small boat...
     

     
    With 24113 shunting some vans...
     

     
    26038 bound for Inverness...
     

     
    Awaiting clearance...
     

     
    26038 rearranging some 16T minerals between duties...
     

     
    24113 waits to depart...
     

     
    26038 idles in the sun...
     
    I think that probably now brings a close to the recent work revamping the layout now. Although it is tempting to keep tinkering with it, I am also conscious that I don't want to overcook it with bits and bobs and I nearly ruined the backscene last week at one point.
     
    I will swap the DG's over the weekend and take some final shots next week as the layout is set to appear in a certain 2mmFS bi-monthly publication soon. Perhaps I will post some more shots next week if peeps aren't fed up to see it now.
     
    Thanks all for your interest in this project.
     
    Pete
  10. bcnPete
    Update - Good afternoon,
     
    With the 'Outlaws' safely dispatched during the middle of the week (after almost 2 weeks here ) it was time to do some modelling....a sort of reward for my tolerance if you will
     
    The first task was to apply the first coat of Sculptamold to the ground contours. Lovely stuff to work with (as ever, thanks Julia for the tip ) and surprisingly not that messy either...the only downer is when I step back and look at it, I have a sudden craving to eat a bowl of porridge
     
    This was carefully applied so that the viaduct and both dries buildings are still removable to allow offsite work on them. Soon I need to bite the bullet and bed them in so scenics can progress. The sculptamold may have a smoother coat applied in places to form the road surfaces but I will try a little sanding first to see how it looks. This will then get painted brown and before the static grass is applied, I will first throw on a base of old scatter from my collection of twenty years ago...lessons learnt previously meant that the static grass does not need several passes to cover the ground earth.
     

     
    Contours now smoother since Sculptamold applied...
     

     
    Plan shot...the 3 structures remain removable but will be bedded in soon...
     
    Then it was time to move on trees. As fantastic as Tom E's (amongst others on here) tree making is, I decided some time ago I would buy trees for layouts now on. For one, I don't find it theraputic...my fingers are stripped to shreds from twisting wire...and I probably need between 50 and 100 to do the layout justice...in brief, for me, life's too short.
     
    The trees used on my diorama comp were from the 4D model shop...a bit pricey, but I think with careful selection, a few budget trees at the rear and a little foliage on the base of the backscene, then results can work quite nicely. I have about 10 trees which were recovered from the recent robbery salvaged from the diorama and these will be used where appropriate.
     
    Before launching in and overspending on trees, I decided to plan them out using a method I use for my architectural models at work. The idea is, that although diagrammatic, it helps get a sense of place and help with scale and vistas etc. Together with the trees from our office, I visited Abacus (our local stationery chain here) and a local art shop and bought various sizes/shapes of polystyrene / paper white balls such as these:
     

     
    The balls are a mixture of paper and polystyrene...
     
    Using various plans of Moorswater and Google Earth I mapped out the tree positions. Obviously, its a lot more overgrown now than the period I am modelling, so a little license has been exercised to pitch it between ordered and overgrown. The trees look fairly young from the early eighties photos I have of Moorswater and have expanded in the last 30 years or so.The balls themselves are speared onto cocktail sticks using finger pressure and then holes drilled through the Sculptamold to locate them. When you look at the pictures you have to exercise a little imagination and envisage 'leafy green open' trees rather than solid masses, however I am happy with the results so far. The balls range up to 45mm in diameter, and there are a few which reminded me of Cadbury's creme eggs...which unfortunately, I can't find here
     
    It may be possible that I might swap a few for bigger trees but the overall impression starts to give what I am aiming for from this layout...which is the train in the landscape sort of stuff...and sometimes the trains disappear behind a few trees and foliage along the front edge.
     

     
    Side on view of trees mapped out...
     

     
    The 3/4 view...weather not so great in BCN today...
     

     
    Looking down on in to the dries...
     

     
    Class 37 backs into dries to collect CDA's...
     

     
    Glimpsed through the trees awaiting to depart...
     

     
    Caught below the viaduct...
     

     
    Winding the clock forward a little...
     

     
    A quick dash to the crossing area...
     
     
    That's it for the moment. Next job is to try and redo the sliding traverser to release locos in the dries and then its the infill track MK II...
  11. bcnPete
    Update - Some more progress since restarting the layout again...
     
    Firstly, the backscene has had a first coat of blue paint. I am going to keep it simple and use the same technique as my diorama by adding some foliage at the base and then a screen of trees in front of it along the length of the layout. It needs some sanding and smoothing where the joins are but I have run out of the paint so will redo next month. Perhaps some clouds added after but overall its a plain blue sky painted using Wilko 'cloudless' tester pot. Note to self: Buy 5 more pots when next in UK.
     
    Secondly, the front fascia has had the located screws removed, filled and first coat of the grey paint. I need to revisit this, sand and smooth off but I like this colour for fascias now in preference to black as I think it looks quite smart...sophisticated even
     
    Thirdly, I have tweaked the turnout. The operating switch has been located and this will be hidden by some foliage and trees accessed by a finger through the hole in the backscene. Rather than rebuild the turnout completely (for the third time ) I set about removing the frog area and made new ones. After refitting and tweaking, the 25 and a 47 seem to rumble through it quite nicely. Some of the wagons cough a little but I think they need some weight added as the etch chassis is very light even with a Parkwood body on.
     
    The next phase will be to spray the track in grey primer, redo the small sliding traverser in the dries area to release locos, add the sculptamold to the ground contours and then have another crack at the infill trackwork area
     
    I attach the sketch done previously that demonstrates with a small cassette it may be possible to run this board on its own and change the eras of the stock to represent clay hoods through to PCA's etc. I have included a few pics of some surprisingly lengthy visitors to Moorswater...and happily the ferrywagons can squeeze around the tight curves at Moorswater...need to rewheel that 66 pretty sharpish too.
     
    Some pics...
     

     
    Front on view...its smartened the layout up a little...
     

     
    And 3/4 view...what's that 'non BR Blue alien' doing in the dries...
     

     
    Original sketch showing the ideas for it to be a stand alone board...
     

     
    Farish 66 on Dapol Ferry wagons...
     

     
    Hoping to get some nice low level shots through the trees once the scenics are underway again...
     
    EDIT: Apologies for the scraggy scenery in a couple of the shots above...this will all get covered when the 'cake skimming' sculptamold team arrive soon...
  12. bcnPete
    The following is a transcript of a conversation I had last month with the Police. For simplicity I have translated it from Spanish to English…
     
    Bcnpete: Good morning, I would like to report a robbery.
    Police: Good morning Sir – What exactly has been stolen?
    Bcnpete: A viaduct.
    Police: A viaduct Sir?
    Bcnpete: Yes…but not a complete one….only one bay of the viaduct.
    Police: One bay of a viaduct? I'm not sure I follow.
    Bcnpete: That’s right…but not a full size bay…a scale model one.
    Police: I am not sure I am getting this Sir…You have an accent…are you English by chance?
    Bcnpete: From London originally…anyway...It’s a scale model of a viaduct, oh and it’s based on one in Cornwall.
    Police: So…to recap….A Viaduct – one bay – scale model - Cornwall – Englishman
    Bcnpete: Correct. And some trees too…and an old Brunel pier too…Oh forget that, it’s getting too complicated. What’s the next move?
    Police: I think we had better visit the crime scene.
    Bcnpete: Thanks. See you soon. Places receiver…thinks to himself ‘Soon is not something I usually equate with Spain’
    Police: Goodbye Sir. Places receiver….mutters to himself ‘Crazy English guy…he sounded a bit drunk’
     
    That afternoon, a knock on the door and two policemen arrived complete with CSI Barcelona.
    After showing them some old pictures of my diorama comp entry from last year, they got to work photographing and dusting with those small fluffy brushes.
     

     
    Crime scene...
     
    Three weeks passed by with no news and I was beginning to lose faith in the Spanish police, pondering that perhaps that they were spending a good part of their day catching speeding motorists and issuing €300 fines, rather than tracking my viaduct. I began to think it was time to start afresh and rebuild the viaduct again, using lessons learnt from the first model…when I walked into our model room home office and something in the background caught my eye…
     
    As I got closer…tears of joy began to unfold…there in front of me, the viaduct stood relocated in the correct position on my Coombe Junction – Moorswater layout which had been lying low whilst I had been busy working in the Far North of Scotland.
     

     
    Plan view...curve introduced to backscene...
     

     
    Note crude wiring...which will disappear beneath the layout...
     
    The mysterious magic pixies from the Duchy, perhaps concerned of the neglect of the layout of late had repositioned it and modified the backscene to include that much needed curve in the corner. I was overwhelmed…and immediately telephoned the Spanish Police...but I won’t bother to translate that conversation as there are far too many expletives.
     
    So on that note, I hereby give notice that work has recommenced on all things Cornish and I am hoping to make good progress of the 3 boards between now and Christmas, starting with Board 3, Moorswater.
     
    I believe it coincides with the month of April starting today…
  13. bcnPete
    Update - I am of course referring to weathering. I couldn't put it off any longer so I have had a first bash with a tractor. I also seem to have got a better understanding of my camera so hopefully the latest photos are an improvement...and most importantly are more in focus...
     
    Back to the weathering - Before I tackle the 24 and 26, I thought I would warm up on a class 37. My gradual conversion of a new Farish 37 to 37175 is taking far too long and I will probably strip the aerosoled paint and start again when I get my airbrush up and running this summer and so not wishing to rush that, I have used my old Farish 37417, which was bought off eBay two years ago for use when Kyle was exhibited in the UK. It's in the rather attractive large logo livery which for me always looked mighty fine on Scottish 37's.
     
    The 37 is the older Farish model, which means the body is wrong in terms of length and it also sits very high on the bogies. I set about trying to lower it as per the newer ones, but the design of the chassis block prevents it sitting much lower as the chassis clashes with the cab glazing. From that moment, I saw little reason to waste spend time detailing the front ends with pipes etc so I decided to just add some ploughs and treat it as a test bed.
     
    Firstly, I have dry brushed some railmatch frame dirt on the bogies and the snow ploughs. I would like to return to these and work in a little black powder to try and bring out some shadows etc. I have then dry brushed a fair amount of MIG black powder onto the roof (which used to get so dirty you would mistake them for black painted) and work it in around the grilles and nose ends. The front yellow cab ends still look a little 'plasticy' for my liking but as noted, not worth spending time respraying this one at present. I also need to work a little brown powder/dirt on the lower bodysides too and perhaps a few streaks.
     
    In short, I didn't want to 'overcook it'....nor 'undercook' it...but I know it needs some more work before I tackle the 24 and 26. Just how far I take it remains to be seen but at least I have got my hands tractor dirty now in the process. And it was rather fun...albeit in a nervous kind of way.
     
    In other news I have experimented with some coloured pencils (Pixie's tip I recall?) on the quayside wall and again, it needs more work but I think the effect is starting to get better. A few rusty rails have been added to the yard, ballasting touched up, sleepers and chairs picked out where it was lacking and a new sign for the station (still can't crack that Scottish blue colour on my printer - with the Scalescenes one being a little to garish for me)
     
    Here's a few pics and I also include a 'Google Earth' type overhead and a front view as Mike (Paternoster Row) was requesting a few overall's of the layout...
     

     
    Farish old 37...with first attempts at weathering...
     

     
    On the quayside...basking in the gloom...
     

     
    And again...See how high she sits on the bogies still...
     

     
    Google Earth...both my layouts only have 2 turnouts...and the next (Paddock Wood) only has 1
     

     
    Front on view...is that a few bubbles I see appearing in the backscene?
  14. bcnPete
    Update - A number of activities have been taking part of recent, and so to blend against those new FC Barca RMWeb colours I thought I would try a few black and white photos.
     
    Firstly, I recognise that I do need to improve on my photographic skills. The neat Canon A590 digital camera bit the dust recently so I have been using our 'entry level' Nikon D3100 and am still struggling to get good light/depth of field despite using a tripod, manual settings and selftimer simultaneously...
     
    Back to in front of the lens, rather than behind it and work has now almost finished on converting the Bachfar 24 to 24113.
     
    Front end detailed to include pipes, plated over door, headcode discs and the front edge of the buffer beam painted blue on 24113 as opposed to yellow as on the Bachfar 24035 model. Although what remains now...and I keep putting it off...but can't for much longer...is much needed weathering. I aim to have a go at this and the 26 sometime this week...oh well, there's always modelstrip if it goes 'orribly wrong
     
    The station building has been finally glued in place after finishing the flashings to the roof and a first dusting of weathering powders applied to the roof. It certainly looks a lot better now toned down but perhaps still needs some further work on it. A Langley cast whitemetal telephone box is a placeholder for a brass etched kit...if such a thing exists in 2mm?
     
    The hardstand area adjacent to the quayside (which was never really very convincing as painted plasticard) has been overlaid with some scalescenes concrete 'scaled down' from one of the 4mm diesel depot kits waiting to be built for my sons roundy roundy. The quayside has had a little white paint (inspired by Gary's Glenuig) to represent a little froth gathering around the boat and the water lapping against the wall. I would like to work further on the quayside, perhaps using some colour pencils to try and give it some green/algae type textures.
     
    The ballast has been infilled and patched in places especially across the middle of the layout (from when it used to be in two pieces) and has bugged me for ages.
     
    I still need to add some lengths of 60ft rusty rail, a little more clutter and keep applying the MIG weathering powders to provide the necessary grime from the diesel era.
     
    A few pics to demonstrate a little of the above waffle...
     

     
    24113 collects some vans to add them to the parcels forming one of those typical Kyle mixed trains...
     

     
    Renumbered using Precision decals...and this time some Klear...
     

     
    Front ended was filled to represent plated over version...
     

     
    One of those 'just arriving by boat' views I hope to improve upon....
     
    EDIT: Here's a better image which I took earlier today - I think it looks better when you click on it to enlarge it...
     

  15. bcnPete

    presentation...

    By bcnPete,

    Good morning,
     
    In between working on Kyle, I have been doing a little further work on this project, sometimes sketching with an espresso and in this case a small model to test ideas.
     
    I think I have said before that I am very interested how layouts present their public face at exhibitions, as a pet hate of mine is to see a fantastic layout...and beneath it, a fairly scruffy base or a piece of cloth tacked along like a washing line...
     
    Firstly, lighting. The first outing for KIAB, I did not introduce lighting and relied on the venues lights, but I think the more we can provide ourselves it means there are less surprises when we turn up to exhibit, as a ceiling at 2.5m high with downlights is very different to a Sports Hall of say 8m high with florescent tubes in cages.
     
    I am considering using the small strip lights from IKEA (I had to get a bit of IKEA in this model ) which I hacked around for use on my diorama comp entry. It needs some more thought but I will try and incorporate plug in strips above the front fascia. I am also toying with the idea of a 'floating sky' above the through line and this will enable views through or access to problematic rolling stock...sketch as below...
     

     
    The IKEA lights would be mounted as a continuous strip this time...
     
    Secondly, as another development from CJM I would like to incorporate a screen into the front display to show some photos of the context, the build, the boxfiles and perhaps even the display the F.A.Cup scores as BHMRC always seems to have its exhibition on Cup Final day...not normally a problem for me as I support Stoke City but they actually made it to the Final last year so I am glad I wasn't exhibiting then...Man City beat them of course...
     
    I have one of those photo frame thingys bought for CJM, but this time I was wondering whether to use an iPad instead...
     

     
    I think the screen could provide an interesting balance to the layout...
     
    Lastly, I have been thinking on how I mount the layout and also viewing heights. I think the easiest option will be to use some adjustable saw horses (which my brother can store in the UK for me) and then he will also construct a piece of timber for me which will act as a base but also will be where the black cloth is attached to. The layout will then sit on top of this. One problem with Kyle was being small and light, when you pushed the turnout dpdt switch, the whole layout wanted to move too...so perhaps this time I will use ply construction and something to hold it in place on the base board. Sketch as below...
     

     
    This shows the assembly sequence. In essence...Land in UK,arrive with IKEA hand luggage (I kid you not!) unpack, assemble, operate, pack up, fly out...
     
    From this I decided to make a quick 1:10 model as I wanted to see how the 1200mm above FFL looked. I mentioned previously that for me, 2mmFS layouts look better at this height as when looked down upon on a table it loses something. Being an Architect I am also aware of the DDA legislation and so it is important to try and strike a balance between able bodied, less able bodied, children etc when considering sight lines...
     
    The following photos show the assembly sequence of said layout and I have made a few 1:10 scale peeps to see how it all looks...
     

     
    The components...
     

     
    First, spread the legs...
     

     
    Then, position the baseboard...a piece of hardboard or ply with some cross bracing beneath...kindly constructed by my brother...
     

     
    Next, attach the black cloth to suit...
     

     
    Finally, position the layout...
     

     
    Behind the scenes...
     

     
    Add peeps...an operator and a couple of punters!...
     

     
    This is most likely one of my two sons..."are we nearly finished Daddy?"
     

     
    1200mm above FFL means that less able bodied wheelchair users should also be able to see the sight lines...
     

     
    And finally, unlikely the layout will ever get that popular!...unless I invite all my family at once (my mother uses a wheelchair sometimes)
     
     
    That's about all for now. The next entry will start to talk about some of the rolling stock that I am gradually accumulating for this project.
     
    Pete
  16. bcnPete
    Update - Its been a bit of a frustrating 10 days or so for me...
     
    Last week our two boys were away on holidays so I took the opportunity to work on their 4mm roundy roundy. I made quite a bit of progress although when they returned this weekend it wasn't long before the screaming, shouting, arguing and fighting started and I nearly went a threw the whole lot on the floor in frustration
     
    So, rather than work on finishing the station building and weathering it, I decided to work a little on the motive power for Kyle. Aside from a large logo tractor, the first two locos will be 24113 and 26038.
     
    For 24113, using the excellent Farish model, I have filled the front doors flush and fitted front end pipe detail to one end. I now need to fit the headcode discs, renumber and weather it. 24113 was a regular on the line to Kyle.
     
    For 26038, it was less straightforward due to all the subtle differences in the class. I know the Dapol version is the earlier type but I have a TPM body in progress for the later version and this will run on a Kato chassis kindly given to me by David Long. For this model I have fitted front end detail pipework, snow ploughs, headcode discs and two headlights for working the Far North lines. I still need to change the steps on the bogies to straight ones and also amend the underfame detail water/fuel tanks.
     
    I began the locos this weekend as an antidote to all the 4mm stuff for my kids (as I felt I had wasted a week after the meltdown happened) however after trying to fix all the fiddly front end pipe detail, then losing half of it on the floor...and then losing most of it all again on the floor, I can only appreciate even more how fantastic Ian of Mercig Studios work is. Note to self: I must keep doing the Euromillion so I can commision Ian to produce all my fleet...
     
    So, feeling that both my eyesight and patience isn't cut out for this no more...I'm having a bit of a lowpoint again Sorry...
     
    Anyhow...here's a shot of the 26 as it stands at present...
     

     
    Hopefully, things will look a bit more this week...
     
    EDIT: Typo in 24133 - Should read 24113, which was a Kyle regular (24133 had the headcode box which may the subject of a future build...)
  17. bcnPete

    all aboard all aboard...

    By bcnPete,

    Update - After almost 2 years, KoL finally has a station building....but not a finished one...
     
    Have been a bit quiet of late as I wanted to make some significant progress with the building before posting...and here it is...
     

     
    Firstly, I know the roof needs toning down...but it does tend to take your eye off the backscene at present...
     
    I will just give a concise history of how the station building was developed. You may recall this was Mk II as the plasticard version was too crude so I decided to revert to card and use a series of layers to build up the carcass. A clear plastic body was followed by a postcard thickness layer with the white window frames cut out...that was my last post on it I think. Then followed a series of disasters experiments to apply the wooden cladding. The postcard was scribed with a scalpel to represents the horizontal timbers but the overall look was not so great...as pictured here...
     

     
    I tried unsuccessfully to buy some coloured A4 card sheets here in Spain, but gave up as I couldn't match the right shade. So I decided to make my own series of sheets using CAD starting with the white cladding (I have gone for the late 70's period white and grey paint scheme) This was developed and drawn as a 'grey tone' to try and play down the horizontals. This sheet was then spraymounted to white postcard and cut and applied to the facade trimming around the openings as this...
     

     
    The next was the lower grey cladding and this needed a few experiments until a grey was settled upon. Bear in mind this 70's paint scheme had three shades of grey, one for the lower cladding, one for the window/door frames and another for the sill detail. I was comfortable with the whole grey thing having spent almost 11 years working with Lord Norman Foster before coming to Spain.
     
    The scribed planking developed above was then reused and various grey backgrounds applied to it and printed but the printer couldn't cope with the greyness and close spacing of the planks, merging everything into a dark grey mess.
     
    So finally I printed out some various A4 plain grey tones and then this was taped to the sheet of scribed planks and using a 0.3 propelling pencil, was scribed to represent the planks as this...
     

     
    This was then spraymounted to postcard, cut out and trimmed to suit the lower level.
     
    The next phase was the door and window frames, doors and window sill and for this I again selected upon some colour shades and printed them, mounted on postcard and cut and trimmed them to suit.
     

     
    Finally, the roof was developed using the excellent product by Ian (scanman) as seen on the forum here recently by John Brenchley's excellent Tavistock project. These have been cut out and applied using the 1/3 overlap and I really think the time invested is well spent. It does of course look a little too light at present but I will weather it as per Ian's suggestion of using powder form crayons or weathering powders. I have started to add the lead flashings around one of the chimneys as well as some roof detailing. Scalescenes signs have been added where appropriate but its difficult to find pics from that era...without a train stuck in the way... Here is a front on view of the station...
     

     
    I nabbed 37135 and a couple of Bachmann MK I's to help give it a bit of context and try and give a feel for the progress which I am aiming to try and complete by the end of this month.
     

     

     

     

     
    It really needs a large logo tractor to set it off, but in the meantime I have the 24 and 26's to detail and perhaps the 37 can follow.
     
    Pete
  18. bcnPete

    moving forward again...

    By bcnPete,

    Many thanks for all the continued comments regarding the layout, in particular the recent 'backscene crisis'. I decided to reprint option 1 as that seemed to get the most votes and I think the differences are quite subtle but worth it. Although I realise it may not be to everyone's taste, I am grateful to Mike to raise the issue, which prompted debate and actually got me to rethink it and change it albeit in a subtle way. Thanks Mike. I confess I was starting to lose a little interest again with the layout and the enthusiasm was starting to drop off, so I felt I had to take a decision and keep moving. I am also mindful that both Gary and Glen both gave their time freely on this element to help and that is not something you turn your back on. Many thanks again fellas' if you are reading this.
     
    In terms of attaching it I used a mixture of spraymount and photomount...only a mixture because both were on their last legs and apart from a heart stopping moment where they both coughed and spat....we got through it. The wall and bridge have now been glued in position too.
     
    So with that done, it was time to turn my attention back on the station building. I have acquired some of Ian's (scanman's) self adhesive slates for the roof so last night I have prepared the roof profile (the gaps will be adjusted once the glue has set) and I will now start the cladding on the walls using, I think prescribed thin card, painted before application. Then the door and window frames will be added separately, again pre-painted. A different approach this for me as I am quite an impatient modeller so I need to try and relax and let things dry before moving on.
     
    I attach a couple more photos. I think the scale of the building seems okay relative to the size of the layout...and if I can manage some nice detail it may help lose that backscene to fulfil its roll as backdrop...
     

    From the roadbridge end...am playing around with my camera settings still trying to improve shots...
     

     
    An overall view...
  19. bcnPete
    Good afternoon,
     
    Further to the last update, and I guess Mike's observations, it got me wondering about the backscene.
     
    I think it does look better with it, than the plain blue sky but I wondered whether in fact it might benefit from being toned down a tad?
     
    I have had a little tinker in 'Paint' (as I don't have Photoshop) and basically have played around with the contrast to see whether it might look better if it is 'less in your face' (can't think of a better turn of phrase for that at present) with it slightly softer.
     
    The original photo, kindly set by Gary is as this...
     

     
    And after fiddling, I have produced this...
     

     
    Not sure what peeps think of this.
     
    At €11 a print, I may need a vote of confidence whether its worth reprinting...or sticking with what I had.
     
    It may be it needs further work to have it more as a ghost in the background...
     
    as this...
     

     
    Mike's other comments regarding the building being set into the backscene is I think, a problem common to half relief modelling...and not something I will repeat on my next boxfile adventure.
     
    Any comments you may have will as ever be appreciated...
     
    many thanks,
     
    Pete
  20. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    Further to the backscene crisis I have been undertaking some experiments. My tinkering with GIMP and Paint was getting me nowhere. Enter, Glen, a good friend from School for over 34 years now (an ex rail enthusiast who still has a light flickering for the hobby I think) who offered his photoshopping skills, as that's one of his skills from his profession, who kindly offered to tweak the backscene.
     
    Glen was briefed (from the comments made last entry) to try and keep the clouds strong but to play down the hills and below. Within a couple of hours, 6 subtle options were winging the way back to BCN for trial purposes. Today, I did an A3 test print of each (my A3 colour printed has started to include some evenly spaced lines which is annoying )
     
    I have folded them and attached briefly in place and took a few comparison shots. I have placed the old station building on merely as it has a little more presence then the newer one, but once the backscene is fixed in place I can get back on to the new station building. Obviously at A3 the hills are larger then should be, but I think it gives the feel for them and you can just see the previous backscene in place at the edge by the ramp. What is interesting is that the on screen images looked a lot darker then when printed out. So here goes, a few shots of each modified by Glen and below placed in context. I would be grateful for any comments received and whilst opinions may vary, I will take a decision quite soon as I do not wish the completion of the layout to become a saga...as is often the case...
     

     

     
    Option 1
     

     

     
    Option 2
     

     

     
    Option 3
     

     

     
    Option 4
     

     

     
    Option 5
     

     

     
    Option 6
     
     
    In other news, the water has been repainted and I have now applied about 6 separate layers of Humbrol gloss varnish. I think I am happier with the effect and will keep adding the layers and then return back to the wall to dry brush some further detail and tidy up loose edges.
     

     
    That's all folks...
     
    EDIT:
     
    Further to all the comments below, this morning I test printed option 1 again, but this time on A4 paper. Despite the quality of the print, this gives more sky available and I have placed on the layout after cropping the bottom 50mm off the bottom to give more sky/clouds which results in the loss of the water. This was inevitable as keeping the water compromises the sky etc...
     
    I attach the test print in place and I think I will get it reprinted tomorrow actual size (700mm long) at the copyshop, which will result in better quality.
     

     
    I also slid it along the length and tucked in behind the ramp...I think this goes to demonstrate that once the low level shots with rolling stock are undertaken, the backscene may disappear even further...
     

  21. bcnPete

    getting there...

    By bcnPete,

    Good afternoon,
     
    Despite a recent flurry of activity on PWIAB, work has been progressing on trying to finish this project.
     
    I suddenly realised that I was going about it all the wrong way I had been trying to complete the station building before tackling all the other bits and pieces and detailing but whilst not wanting to rush the second attempt at the building, it meant there was no progress on everything else...
     
    So, I decided to reverse that, concentrate all my efforts on all the outstanding elements and leave the station building to last...after all, it is the most important structure on the layout.
     
    So...this is what I have been up to...
     
    Fascia: The exterior of the layout has now been painted in my preferred grey colour. I always used to use black on past layouts but of recent, I find this to look very smart. I have also re applied the text to the front and added the 2mmFS logo...this turned out to be a good strategic move as the layout now starts to feel more finished.
     

     
    The card has been painted a couple of coats - would have preferred something a bit more matt, but its difficult to find a lot of materials here...
     
    Backscene: Previously, I had painted the backscene a sky blue as a base and was in two minds how to treat it. Gary (of Glenuig fame) kindly offered to take some photos last year whilst in Kyle and I mentioned the backscene. Not only did Gary kindly take the photos, he also offered to stitch them together as a panorama and send me a file. The backscene is more moody and representative of the context I feel and certainly is a big improvement on the one I hashed together for the BHMRC 2010 show...Many thanks again Gary.
     
    I have attached it with masking tape whilst I try and work out the best method of fixing it to avoid bubbles...all suggestions most welcome!
     

     
    New backscene without 90 degree corners Thanks also to Tony Simms to suggest that...
     
    Platforms: The platform and road surfaces have been redone with some wet n dry paper.
     
    Wall and bridge: The stone wall has had some dry brushing and further work will be undertaken on this with some weathering powders. The road bridge has also been reinstated together with the handrail.
     
    Sidings: I wanted to represent the fence that was installed adjacent to the line and for this I have used Bernard TPM's excellent fence product. A very nice kit of etches and cast components and whilst it is the temporary fencing often used around construction sites, I think it works in this situation. I put a small kink in it as I have never visited a building site to date and found one erected in a perfect straight line!
     
    Quayside: The wall has been repainted (again) and the water has been repainted (again) which I have decided to paint layers of gloss varnish on rather than the PVA method which I didn't really get on with. The wall will continue to have applications of dry brushing to add further colours etc. I have also redone the metal ladders which this time are extended to form the grab rails to climb on and off and also some small tyres have been added, strung on cotton thread. Again, some further weathering powders will be added to these items. Also added...but not stuck is a small boat I found in my pot of bits from years old. Not sure whether it works or not so the jury is still out on that. A couple of photos of the above...
     

     
    Station building awaiting completion...the TPM fencing...built and arranged slightly imperfectly...
     

     
    The wall still needs further work including reinstating the blue Kyle signage...
     
    I am hoping to get back to the station soon and I have just received from Ian (Scanman) some of his self adhesive tiles (seen on the excellent Tavistock Blog) to complete the roofing. In between restarting the station I will be continuing to add colour/weathering powders.
     

     
    Looking back...just needs some rolling stock now...
     
     
    I did say I would finish it and not get too distracted by the other project(s)...
  22. bcnPete
    Good morning,
     
    Many thanks all for your interest and enthusiasm for this new project.
     
    Whilst it was originally timetabled for May 2014, Chris, the BHMRC exhibition manager read my proposal, liked it and floated the question whether it could even be ready for May 2013... Let's just say (I know you might be dropping into this Chris) that it could be a distinct possibility...as I have been working on Kyle again and prepping CJM for its next phase...
     
    This week, in between trying to award Practical Completion (something the Client, Contractor and Architect all have different ideas of) I have been sketching to try and develop the project and start to think in more detail in terms of operations and logistics. The sketches below, which I hope you find of interest, track my thinking process and ask questions about the design and its suitability, with a focus on trying to improve on previous work be it success or failure.
     
    The first one shows something of the original idea to try and make a boxfile layout with through running as opposed to small termini. I was quite keen on the 1/2 station idea and was trying to find suitable prototypes for a while, but I eventually went off this idea as I was worried that operation would be a little dull...both for punter and exhibitor!
     

     
    Sketch 1: It was during this phase that Chris (EastwestDivide) suggested Paddock Wood...hence the drift to listing rolling stock ideas...
     
    The second one looks at two options for Paddock Wood. The first being the redevelopment of the bay idea but to include the through running line. The second option forgets the through line but instead squeezes in another siding at the front.
     

     
    Sketch 2: The second option was dropped as I felt the through running would add an extra twist to the layout...
     
    The third sketch looks at the through line in more detail and how the line of the hinge could correlate with the 'hidden face' of the platform. At present I am unsure how I will support it and maintain alignment perfectly.
     

     
    Sketch 3: This is illustrates that the 'highest' element on here will be the platform canopy so if I need to increase the depth of the boards I can perhaps make the canopy removable...
     
    The fourth sketch looks at logistics of operation. What is clear is that 'through trains' will run from left to right and so would be best arranged as a series of block trains on cassettes that can then be lifted back again once a sequence has completed. The freight sidings need to allow for a 'run-a-round' (g..g..g..g..g..g...go..!) facility to enable wagons to be arranged, removed etc.
     

     
    A list of potential block trains is starting to emerge, with thanks to Chris (EWD) for sending a collection of fotos from that period...
     
    The final sketch is looking at the logistics of exhibiting. One big thing that I felt about Kyle was that it was too low and 2mmFS looks better (IMHO) with rail height at about 1200mm from FFL. So rather than sit it on a table, I was considering the layout sits on a simple plank (that I make in the UK in my father's garage) and perhaps that can sit on some of those DIY adjustable leg supports...the name escapes me as you can't find that in Spanish DIY shops. A black cloth of course will cover the front below the layout...and provide the necessary screening to the exhibitors carrott cake and kit kat stashes...
     

     
    I think I will make a small 1:10 model of this as previously for CJM to help visualise this better...
     
     
    I hope you find this of interest. Please note that no alcohol (only espressos) was consumed during the time these sketches were done. I wouldn't want people to get the wrong impression of me...
  23. bcnPete
    ....I wish he would just get on and finish something...
     
    Firstly, my plans for 2012 will prevail and I am still aiming to try and complete Kyle by the end of this month and spend most of this year back working on coombe junction - moorswater as I would like to make some progress again on my main layout.
     
    This is an introduction of something that has been simmering for a while (since that 4CEP landed) and whilst I have started to collect some rolling stock to set aside, the layout is primarily aimed for the Burgess Hill Model Railway Club exhibition 2014, for which I have been pencilled in. On the Boxing Day inbound flight to the UK, armed with sketchbook and a G+T, many ideas were considered for a micro layout that could be both transportable and based upon a prototype.
     
    A Wilko boxfile was snapped up as it was noted that the dimensions were slightly more generous then the Muji one I had used before. Once again, in this context, when I mean boxfile layout, rather than build it inside, my use of is for storage and travelling purposes.
     
    I really wanted to try and use the 4CEP as having spent 15 years growing up amongst southern emu's and classes 33, 47 and 73, it seemed an interesting challenge.
     
    Further to posting this thread last week, Chris (aka Eastwestdivide) posted a photo and suggested the idea of modelling the Bay platform of Paddock Wood with a few sidings in front.
     

    Photo by kind permission of Chris (Eastwestdivide)
     
    This began to resonate nicely as I liked the idea (not unlike Kyle) of having a passenger train trundle back and forth, disturbed by a few freight shunting moves in front. As the thread gathered momentum discussing typical rolling stock of that period, I decided it would be a great little challenge. A chance to try and improve on my original KIAB layout and all its shortcomings.
     
    So yesterday, to test the idea, I made a 'quick n dirty' mock up...which is best explained in pictures...
     

     
    The Wilko boxfile...the internal sprung hinge has been removed to maximise the opening space...
     

     
    Lid open and the two main scenic elements are stored within...
     

     
    And this time I will try and hinge the box to aid with track alignment and stability...
     

     
    Giving this as the track plan...station canopy modelled fairly crudely at present!...
     
     
    Rather than try and shoehorn the fiddleyards into the same box (as I originally did with KIAB) it is likely I will purchase another Wilko boxfile, which should squeeze into my hand luggage...and leave enough room for my toothbrush...
     

     
    The Fiddleyard sub bases packed in the boxfile...
     

     
    Once again, the undersides of these will cradle the rolling stock boxes, most likely lift out foam lined trays...
     

     
    Fiddleyards aligned against the scenic boards...
     

     
    Giving an overall of something like this...
     
     
    And as much as I liked it...there was something missing. The ability to run through trains which could showcase some more rolling stock and generally add to the scene. But the width was a given, from the boxfile dimensions and I couldn't see a way to squeeze in without overcooking it.
     
    Then, with a little lateral thinking...and a small twist to the idea, I realised that within the depth of the base I could have a hinged flap for a single track the otherside of the bay platform, which can still be ballasted and detailed and folds up to meet the platform face. This would then allow trains to run through or stop as per necessary.
     

     
    The additional track to the otherside of the bay platform in place...
     

     
    Which is actually hinged within the depth and widths of the available space...
     

     
    And once elevated, is supported on retractable runners beneath...
     
     
    And now, the layout began to become more interesting, it was time to tackle the backscene...which this time I have decided to go for the 'letterbox view' and keep a single linear front fascia, which is hinged and stored in the box on top of the fiddleyard/stock trays.
     

     
    The fascia is unpacked and ready for positioning along the front...
     
    The final layout is just under 2 metres in length (allowing for 600mm fiddleyards at either end) and gives something like this....
     

     

     
    a with a nod to Chris's original photograph...
     

     
    Finally, all the components laid out upon the table. Fiddleyards will need further design development (to allow for the extra width) and I was considering using some of the IKEA strip lighting I used on my diorama comp entry.
     

     
     
    I am quite excited about it, but having now made the model and proof tested the idea, it will now develop in a series of sketches to test various ideas, whilst I continue to assemble rolling stock and get back to my other planned commitments for 2012.
     
    I hope you find this of interest and I should like to thank Chris (Eastwestdivide) for his initial photo/research/information and indeed to all the others who have kindly contributed to the prototype thread, which I hope will continue...
     
    Pete
  24. bcnPete

    bubble-icious...

    By bcnPete,

    Good afternoon,
     
    me again...back to back posting
     
    This posting is twofold really...
     
    Firstly, my Dapol BR Blue bubble finally arrived today from Hattons...well 2 of them actually, due to a mix up between Hattons and myself. It will go straight back as I prefer to keep the money for the Blue Grey version...when you are ready DD..
     
    I have been awaiting this model for some years now so I guess my part built worsley works 121 etch...will remain par built. It really is the one bit of rolling stock the line needs so forgive me for plonking it straight OOTB on the layout to see if it feels at home.
     
    Secondly, I have been meaning to set up the layout along its length in our external terrace as we now have a bit of extra space and I wanted to 'slot in' my 2011 diorama effort to see how it looked, afterall my entry was a testbed for scenery, lighting, fascias and of course building the viaduct.
     
    You have to try and imagine stretching the diorama the 11" along the 3.3 metres length as that's really the feel I would like the layout to have. A hell of a lot of trees, with a small branch/freight line running between them.
     
    I am hoping to restart this in January 2012 and give the layout a good crack next year and see what I can get done before 21 December 2012...or whatever that doomsday date is.
     
    Until then, a few pics and I am heading back to the far North of Scotland...
     

     
    Dapol Bubble at Coombe Junction halt...
     

     
    And a closer view...
     

     
    Overall of layout 3.3 metres in length...
     

     
    And with 2011 diorama 'slotted in'...
     

     
    And a little closer...I know that the branch line doesn't align!...
     

     
    And from the other side...just to give a feel for what I am aiming at...
     
    EDIT...Forgot to add this one yesterday...this is a front end on view showing 'implied proscenium arch' using the lighting beam...
     

     
    The beam is just enough to let the viaduct breathe a little...
  25. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    I must admit, having participated in and been following the thread on 'Blog quality' I was wondering whether to continue with my blog(s)...however, I do try to post something regularly and I accept that it may interest some...but not others.
     
    After two weeks of Christmas parties, its time to rest the liver and slot in some modelling...tonight being one such night.
     
    The first layer I am referring to is the glazing layer which was applied a few nights ago and has helped give strength to the base structure. One thing I realised half way through, is that its not necessary to scribe the windows...as they are formed with an overlay sheet...
     
    The second layer, the window layer has now been marked out and added and onto this I will add a further sheet which will give further relief to the window frames. The horizontal planking has been the subject of experiments by printing pre drawn horizontals 'greyed out' but I think I will try and scribe these instead. The windows and door frames will be added again as a separate layer.
     
    Its slow progress, but am much happier with it than the plasticard version. I had hoped to complete the 3 month revamp before crimble but I will now use January to try and complete it as the layout will be featuring in the 2mm Association Mag so I need to get a wiggle on to meet the deadline for printing.
     
    A few pics attached...
     
    I hope this of interest to some of you and I should just like to say thanks for all your support and encouragement throughout 2011 and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.
     
    Pete
     

     
    Overall showing window layer in place on perspective layer...
     

     
    Plan view with partial of next layer to be applied...
     

     
    And the customary cruel close up shot...using that 'not so popular' currency for scale...
     

     
    EDIT: A quick pic taken this morning in natural light insitu in the context...I think the station is looking a bit more substantial now and has a bit of presence...
×
×
  • Create New...