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WaltP thanks for sharing the pics. I have to agree with you I have done N scale and Ho before but I never get past the track laying an maybe a few buildings done before I tear it down, even if I have a plan and everything. but I am in the process of remodeling my room that the layout will go in so once it is done I'll know what I want to do and how big or small I can go.
Time to take a look at the dry creek. I don't know how many of you have seen something like this, but I like the results so far. Because of occasional water there will be some small trees and bushes. Still needs sand and more sand. Jim
I did some work this weekend but Photobucket may have been one of the sites hacked this past week like the Trainboard site that has been down for 5 days. Jim
Aint it funny how so much of our lives is becoming electronic, our banking, our businesses, our bills, and Yet, more and more is getting hacked, even when they say things are secure. I find it interesting for convinence people risk so much just to save some time. until they find out they got their money or ID stolen, then how much time is envovled then. anyway I am guilty myself of it. but you just made me think of that. anyway Jim can't wait to see the progress.
Hi guys, thanks for the comments. Photobucket is back online.
In this photo you can see I've painted another side/fascia. Above the road bed and in the stream you can see the dusting of the sand mix I'm using. It is a mixture of three Arizona Rock & Mineral products.
Previously you have seen photos showing red rocks. They are red, but I've toned them down. The few 'desert' layouts I've seen didn't tone down their layouts and one needs sunglasses on a clear day. Also note that color is less intense in this photo. It is cloudy here today and a muted light is coming down through the solar tube. I will have to keep in mind what color I really want in my photos. Jim
Next up is the only part of the previous layout remaining. The turntable and one building. I'm thinking about using a Micro Engineering Code 83 turnout this time. It is a number 5 and is larger so I can't make the turn into the yard as easily as the previous plan.
More plaster cloth to level things out. If nothing else this will be a true 'runners' layout! Jim
RR, Absolutely. I've used them on every layout. It is an excellent system for two reasons. 1. Easy to use. 2. Most importantly the risers allow the layout to be 'off the table' so building can be done below track level. Look at real railroads, I'm betting 85% of rails are 'above' the basic ground level. Sort of elevated. Otherwise they would get washed away. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Jim
Amen, Brother! WS risers were a "godsend"! No WAY I'd have been able to do grades so smoothly, so quickly! Lay the foundation and lay the ramps, add track and "stir", serve hot! Excellent for raising train just enough to not be "hidden" by trains on another track!
On another topic I notice we are nearing 600,000 views. Thank you. As usual we will have a Contest to help me get rid of some of my model railroad items. All scales Z thru O will have a shot. Jim
Next is building the last hill. Newspaper, unused WS risers for the towers and plaster cloth. I'll let this dry overnight and cover with Sculptamold tomorrow. Almost finished with the land forms! Jim
Here's the photo of the application of Scultamold. I just applied it with my hand. It looks pink because I added about 3" of Burnt Sienna acrylic paint in the mix. Added water and stirred it all together. I've mentioned before that I don't like white under ground covers and such. The slightest nick then shows white and ruins the look. More forgiving if you add some paint. I do NOT care for latex paint for covering the white surfaces either. It leaves a dull unrealistic final 'look' after ground covers are applied. I like WS Earth for this paint job. Jim
Almost finished with landforms. Here the last large one painted and a light coat of sand added. Notice the yard is turning more sandy red. Next up is, How do you finish off the narrow front of the layout? It is only an inch wide. Jim
